Larry Wayne Vanzant

Larry Wayne Vanzant, born May 12, 1948, in Roswell, New Mexico, returned to his heavenly
home on January 25, 2026. Larry, the son of Reverend Earl Vanzant, an Assemblies of God
minister, grew up in the church, and his faith sustained him throughout his life.

Larry graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a degree in accounting. Larry was a
standout guard on the university's 1969 NAIA Championship basketball team. He received the
"Best Hustler" Award at the 32-team NAIA National Tournament and set ENMU records with 16
assists in a game and 226 assists during the 1969–70 season.

In 1970, Larry married his college sweetheart, Donna Jayne, and honored his country by joining
the Air Force. With his wife and two sons in tow, he was stationed in Germany, where he worked
at Ramstein Air Base for two years. His military service brought Larry and his family to
Colorado, where he worked at the North American Aerospace Defense Command before retiring
to civilian service as an accountant for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service in Aurora.
Larry's lifelong athleticism evolved into a love of golf. After retiring, he found joy working at a
local golf course, where he spent countless hours perfecting his game. One of his proudest
moments came when he achieved a hole-in-one.

Larry's greatest joy was his family. He cherished time spent together, especially gathering to
cheer on the Broncos. He took great pride in his sons' and granddaughters' accomplishments and
never missed an opportunity to celebrate their milestones. Even as his health and mobility
declined, Larry remained a constant presence, attending family celebrations and lacrosse games
whenever he could, a quiet testament to his love and unwavering commitment to those he held
dear.

He will be remembered for the kindness, generosity, and faith that shaped his life and touched so
many. Larry is survived by his wife of 56 years, Donna Jayne Vanzant (née Smith); son and
daughter-in-law, Steven Larry and Debra Lynn (née Cirincione) Vanzant; granddaughters, Kaylin
Marie and Abigail Jayne Vanzant; sister, Velma Owens (née Vanzant); and brothers, Thurman
(Fern), and Homer (Mandy) Vanzant.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Gholson and Roena Addlaid Vanzant (née
Johnson); brother, Clinton (Fretta) Vanzant; Carl (Shari); and son, Michael Wayne Vanzant.
Funeral services will take place at Fort Logan National Cemetery on March 20, 2026 at 1:00pm.