Larry James McWard

Lawrence "Larry" James McWard, 81, of Morrisonville, IL, passed away at Taylorville Care Center on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. He was born on July 12, 1944, in Taylorville, IL, to the late Clarence A. and Velma E. (Klingler) McWard. On August 7, 1966, he met his help mate, Connie Sue (Braye) McWard at the First Baptist Church of Morrisonville. They spent many beautiful years together and were blessed with five children.

Larry graduated from Morrisonville High School in the Class of 1962. Larry excelled academically and continued his education and obtained a bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale, a master's degree from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville, and finished his education with a doctorate degree from The Ohio State University. Following his schooling, he began his lifelong career as a college professor. Larry and his family traveled throughout his career as he taught at Nokomis, Vandalia, Florida State University, and finally at Western Illinois University where he happily retired from years later.

Faith was important to Larry, and the First Baptist Church of Morrisonville always held a special place in his heart. He enjoyed reading and collecting tools. Larry was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. He cherished the time spent amongst his family and leaves them with many fond memories.

He is survived by his wife: Connie McWard of Morrisonville, IL; son: James (Christy) McWard of Kansas City, MO; Kelly (Craig) Beason of Naples, FL; Kimberly (Dave) Farr of Lincoln, NE; Kendra (Glenn) Winham of Minneapolis, MN; Kerry McWard-Newstrom of Minneapolis, MN; grandchildren: Andrew McWard; Alex McWard; Chloe Beason; Lucabella Beason; Katie Beason; Zacary Beason; Evan Farr; Colin Farr; Owen Farr; and Grant Winham; brother; Lyle McWard (Shirley Steele) of Decatur, IL; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Donald McWard and Harold McWard in infancy, sisters, Irma Bryan, Betty Ward, and Juanita Harvey, father-in-law, Mervin Braye, mother-in-law, Betty (Engelhart) Braye, and nephew, Michael Ward.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Morrisonville Cemetery.

Memorials in his honor may be made to Christian County Animal Control or to First Baptist Church of Morrisonville.