Laurence J. Devlen

Laurence J. Devlen, 89, of Groton, passed away at home on September 21, 2025 after a brief illness.

Larry was born on May 10, 1936 in Cortland, a son of the late Laurence E. and Olive (Wilber) Devlen. A lifelong Groton resident, Larry attended Groton High School and was a veteran of the US Navy, serving on the aircraft carrier USS Champlain during the Korean War era.

Larry enjoyed a lifelong career as a machinist with Smith Corona Marchant (SCM). During those years, he enjoyed camping with his family, and family trips to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. He kept busy after his retirement with projects improving his home and those of his family. He took pride in his extensive gardens and was devoted to his pets, often "adopting" the neighborhood animals. In addition, he and his wife enjoyed many winters in Florida.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Carol (Riemer) Devlen; son: Ronald Devlen (Kimberly), and daughters: Judy Bartlett (Brian), Diane Dempsey (Christopher), and Nancy Morey (Randy); grandchildren: Benjamin Devlen (Kristina), Ashley Cusker (Brendan), Rachel Gordon (Patrick), Ari Cherry (Ryan), Kevin Senter, Mitchell Dempsey (Meegan), Molly Dempsey- Mottl (Natalie), Matthew Metzgar, Mallory Brunet (Eli), and Colin Morey; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Beverly Todd, and brother, Richard Devlen.

Friends may call on Friday, September 26 at the Shurtleff Funeral Home, 103 Lincoln Ave., Groton from 1:00-2:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, with interment to follow in Groton Rural Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Groton Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 96, Groton, NY 13073, or to a local SPCA or animal shelter. Online condolences may be shared with Larry's family at www.shurtleffservices.com .