Lawrence Renee Settle

Lawrence "Larry" Settle, a cherished father, partner, and esteemed oceanographer, passed away on October 23, 2024, in Greenville, NC, at the age of 65. Born on November 23, 1958, in Charlottesville, VA, Larry's life was marked by an unwavering dedication to his family, his work, and the natural world he so loved.
Larry's early years were spent in the nurturing environment of Charlottesville, but his formative education came from White Oak High School in Jacksonville, NC. His love for the ocean and its mysteries propelled him to further his education at UNC-Wilmington, and he later pursued graduate work in Oceanography at NC State University. His academic pursuits laid the groundwork for what would become a distinguished career with NOAA in Morehead City, NC. Larry's profound impact on his field was recognized in November 2004 when he was awarded the prestigious United States Department of Commerce Gold Medal Award for Distinguished Achievement in the Federal Service, specifically for his work at Oregon Inlet, North Carolina.
Beyond his professional triumphs, Larry's life was rich with personal passions and hobbies. As a devoted Boston Red Sox fan, he could often be found cheering on his favorite team, reveling in their victories and standing by them through their defeats. His love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him. He was an avid naturalist, spending countless hours in the embrace of nature, observing wildlife, and imparting his knowledge to others. Larry's fascination with reptiles was more than a pastime; it was a lifelong journey of discovery, leading him to collect and study these creatures with the care of a true scholar.
Larry's passion for history was reflected in his dedication to hunting for and collecting Native American artifacts. These treasures of the past were not merely objects to Larry; they were stories, legacies, and a connection to a time long gone that he deeply respected. His gentle approach to the environment and its history was a testament to his character and his reverence for the world around him.
Music, too, held a special place in Larry's heart. His talent as a guitarist was evident, and his love for playing music was as much a part of him as his love for the sea. The strings and melodies were an extension of his soul, a means to communicate the joy and sorrow that words alone could not express.
Larry's life was one of connection and commitment. He is survived by his daughter, Lauren Johnson, who inherited her father's intelligence and kind spirit. His stepbrother, David McNeill, and stepsister, Cynthia Kuhn, remember him as not just a sibling, but as a true friend. Larry's life partner, Rita Blackburn, shared with him an unbreakable bond of love and companionship. His beloved cats, Emma, Sammy, Spot, Cindy Crawford, and Spooky-Boo, provided him with comfort and joy, each cherished as a member of his extended family. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Linda McNeill, who instilled in him the values of integrity and compassion that he carried throughout his life.
As we say goodbye to Lawrence "Larry" Settle, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and passion. His legacy is one of dedication-to his family, his work, and the natural world he adored. Larry's memory will be held dear in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him, and his contributions to oceanography and the environment will continue to resonate for generations to come.