Larry Glen Sensintaffar

Larry Glen Sensintaffar was born June 12, 1936, in Montgomery, Louisiana. He was the son of Lowell Good and Ruby Theodosia (McCain) Sensintaffar. Larry graduated in 1954 from Hazen High School in Hazen, Arkansas. His life was marked by unwavering patriotism and a deep devotion to his family and community.
Master Chief Petty Officer Larry Sensintaffar proudly served 20 years in the United States Navy, stationed in San Diego, Guam, Hawaii, Maryland (National Security Agency), Panama, Florida, Alaska, and Washington D.C., retiring in 1976. His Joint Service Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal, five Good Conduct Medals and National Defense Service Medal are a testament to his dedicated service.
It was during his first tour at the National Security Agency that Larry met Barbara Diane Lay at Rand's Nightclub in Washington D.C. in December 1960. They married on August 9, 1961, in Annapolis, Maryland, beginning a loving union that blessed them with five children: Lowell, Travis, Karie, Glenda, and Nancy, eighteen grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren. This union lasted sixty-three years until Diane's passing in July 2024.
In 1976, after retiring from the Navy, Larry and Diane moved to Salem, Missouri, where Larry dedicated twenty years to serving as a school bus driver for Green Forest Elementary School. They also operated their family farm, finding joy in working together and raising cattle. Larry's love for his family was immeasurable, especially towards his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and happiness. He also cherished watching high school sports and dancing with his beloved Diane.
A faithful member of Salem United Methodist Church alongside Diane, Larry enjoyed serving and fellowshipping with others. His faith, family, and friends were most important to him.
Larry entered eternal rest June 16, 2025, in Nixa, Missouri at the age of eighty-nine years. He is survived by his loving children: Lowell Sensintaffar and wife Diana of Illinois, Travis Sensintaffar and wife Kammy of Colorado, and Karie Parker and husband Kelly, Glenda Sensintaffar, and Nancy Elmer, all of Nixa; sisters: Nancy Mallady, Frances Griffith, Donna Hodson; brother-in-law: Paul Hodson; sisters-in-law: Carol Redmond, Janice Slaughter, and Nancy Ryder; grandchildren: Jesse Garcia, Gabriel Garcia, Lee Sensintaffar, Hannah Werner, Zoe Munie, Francis Ametode, Justin Sensintaffar, Ali Sensintaffar, Corey Stogner, Elisa Stogner, Anthony Athens, Larry Athens, Lia Athens, Wilson Brawley, Nathan Elmer, Michael Elmer, and Logan Elmer; fifteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.
Preceding him in death were his loving wife: Diane Sensintaffar, grandson: Joshua Sensintaffar; parents: Lowell and Ruby Theodosia (Doie) Sensintaffar; mother-in-law: Madeline Lay; sisters-in-law: Joyce Mason and Betty Lay; and brothers-in-law: Charles Lay and Steve Lay; Frank Redmond, Buzz Mallady and Ralph Ryder
Larry was known for his engaging personality and kind heart. He loved to talk and visit, never met a stranger, and, while always speaking his mind, he did so with a gentle and considerate spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Funeral Services for Larry Glen Sensintaffar were held Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Salem United Methodist Church with Pastor Chuck Whitmire officiating. Eulogies were shared by his five children. Song selections played were "Sweet Beulah Land", "Dancing In Heaven" "Blessed Assurance", and "Victory in Jesus". Serving as Pallbearers were his loving grandchildren. Full Military Honors was provided by the United States Navy with the assistance of the United States Army. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Larry Sensintaffar to the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight or Samaritan's Purse and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available.
Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com