With profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude, we announce the passing of Larry Dean Williams, a remarkable man whose life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and inspiration. Larry departed this world on November 29, 2024, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Born on February 24, 1939, in Coleman County, Texas, to Horace Creed Williams and Lena Aretha Williams, Larry grew up with a boundless curiosity and an innate ability to see the beauty in the ordinary. This outlook guided him through a life rich with experiences and accomplishments. Larry attended Abilene Christian College, where he began to shape his vision of a better, more spiritually connected world.
Larry’s career as a traveling minister took him to many places, but his heart was always with the Church of Christ. He was a lifelong minister, dedicating his life to sharing his faith and helping others find their spiritual path. His congregation remembers him as a compassionate and inspiring leader, whose words resonated deeply and whose actions spoke even louder.
In addition to his ministry, Larry worked for Goodyear in Fort Stockton and spent several years working with Early ISD. He was known for his strong work ethic and his commitment to his community, always striving to make a positive impact wherever he went.
Larry’s love for animals was well-known, especially his cherished dogs, Pal and Munch, who brought him immense joy and companionship. He also had a passion for fishing, finding peace and solitude by the water. His friends, Sean Bailey and Becky, held a special place in his heart as they worked together in their community garden near Larry’s apartment in Brownwood, creating a space of beauty and fellowship.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Horace Creed Williams and Lena Williams, as well their siblings, Horace “Sonny” Creed Williams, Jr., Billie Louise Williams Dunn, and Mary Ruth Williams Phillips. He leaves behind two nieces, two great-nieces, one great-great niece and two great-great nephews and many cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.
A celebration of Larry’s extraordinary life will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel, 400 West Pecan Street in Coleman with Mr. J. Tom Washburn, Pulpit Minister of Austin Avenue Church of Christ. There will be a private interment at the Coleman City Cemetery.
Larry Dean Williams’s spirit will continue to illuminate the lives of those he touched. His memory will forever be a source of strength, inspiration, and joy. Rest in peace, Larry, knowing that you have left this world a better place.
The family requests with gratitude the memorial contributions be made to Corinne T. Smith Animal Center, 3016 Milam Drive, Brownwood, Texas 76801 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Williams family by signing the guestbook on Larry’s tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the Williams family.