William Ray Larr

William Ray Larr

1948 – 2026

William Ray Larr passed away January 11 from complications of treatment for multiple myeloma. Raised in Long Beach, his youth was marked by the pure joy of Southern California living - riding homemade surfboards, playing baseball, making music, and building friendships that would last a lifetime. He attended Wilson High School before going on to the University of California, Berkeley, graduating in 1970.

After college, Bill served his country as a tank commander in the United States Army. Following his military service, he attended the University of Colorado, where he received his J.D. He went on to become a highly respected and successful trial lawyer, known not only for his sharp mind, but for his integrity, fairness, and calm demeanor.

Bill was a lifelong athlete and music enthusiast. He taught his children how to surf, ski, fish, play guitar, and just as importantly, how to read a contract. He generously shuttled their friends and teammates to beaches, mountains, rehearsals, and games, always happy to be along for the ride. Bill was an avid golfer, playing every Sunday with his longtime friends and at Eaton Canyon Golf Course where he served on the board.

Above all else, Bill was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend. He was married to Nancy Bennett for 43 years and together they built a life filled with laughter and friendship. He is survived by his wife Nancy, his children Peter and Raven, his granddaughter Jazzy, his brother Doug, and a wide circle of friends whose lives were richer for knowing him.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held May 24 in the way he would have wanted: one final show filled with friends, family, food, drinks, music, laughter, and endless stories, with special appearances from those he played with over the years. In honor of his favorite film, The Big Lebowski, Bill will take the stage one last time - in a Folgers can. Donations may be made in Bill's name to the International Myeloma Foundation. The family also encourages donating platelets, which are in constant demand for those fighting cancer. Long live the legend of Billy Ray Larr.