Larry Richard Smith Jr.

Larry R. Smith Jr., 61, passed away on December 16, 2025, in Payson, Arizona. He was born in Casa Grande, Arizona, and lived in several places throughout his life, including Arizona, Alaska, and Maryland.
Larry dedicated over three decades of service to the Arizona Labor Force, beginning in June 1994 and retiring in August 2025. He was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and commitment to providing for his family.
Above all else, Larry knew how to live life to the fullest. He was truly the life of the party-never missing a chance to enjoy good whiskey, a fine cigar, and a night of country dancing, especially alongside his beloved wife, Beth. Some of his greatest joys were fishing and traveling the country with Beth in their RV, exploring new places and always managing to find the best fishing spots wherever they went. He especially cherished fishing with his son, teaching him not only how to cast a line, but also sharing life lessons along the way-whether it was patience on the water or working side by side on his truck.
In retirement, Larry was loving life in Pine, Arizona, where he found happiness in the simple things-sitting on the porch, relaxing, and spending time with family and friends. Those moments, filled with laughter and stories, meant everything to him.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Larry R. Smith Sr. (Carol) and Connie Friend (Dick).
He is survived by his loving wife, Beth; his son, Larry R. Smith III, who was the light of Larry's world and a source of immense pride. Larry was deeply proud of his son and his accomplishments, and he especially loved cheering him on as a student at Arizona State University - Go Sun Devils. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Christina Barrett and Nathan DeMarco.
Larry was a devoted grandfather to Sydney, Drayden, Catheryn, Elizabeth, Bradley, and Jacob, and a proud great-grandfather to Haidee, Isabel, Islay, and Ilyssa.
He is also survived by his siblings: Troy Smith (Linda), Suze Rasmussen (Razz), Mark Marrufo, Ryan Smith, Kirsten Gemmer (Jason), Kari Klimuck (Brian), and Lance Muir (Madie), along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
May we find comfort knowing Larry has found the perfect fishing hole, with calm waters and endless lines to cast. Larry's spirit lives on in every cast.