On Thursday, July 31, 2025, the journey of a lifetime came to a close when Larry Michael Chandler passed away at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 12, 1959, in Staunton, Virginia, Larry was the son of the late Frances McGirt and Charles W. Chandler. He was the brother of Kenneth, Richard, Tammy, and the late Charles, known as “Chuck”.

Larry eventually made his way to North Carolina, where he met and charmed the love of his life, Beverly. Together, they raised three children—Jason, Aaron, and Lillian (Nona). In later years, his joy expanded with the addition of his daughters-in-law, Crystal and Lesley; his son-in-law, Gordon; and his cherished grandchildren: Silas, Carson, Jamie, Lena Rose, and baby Winona, who is soon to arrive.

Larry's life was marked by both hardship and adventure, yet through it all, he remained full of humor, faith, stories, and compassion. He was known as a tireless worker, a man who could fix anything, and someone who found deep purpose in helping others. One of his proudest accomplishments was earning a degree from Duke Divinity School, having begun his adult life without a high school diploma. He served faithfully as a pastor, friend, and encourager to countless people. Wherever he went, he left behind the unmistakable imprint of kindness, service, and love.

To his family, Larry will be remembered for his many quirks—his fondness for tinkering, his tendency to talk loudly, his insistence on arriving early, and his tireless research into his family tree. There was no graveyard too remote, no stranger’s door was off-limits, in his pursuit of understanding where—and who—he came from. Yet more than earthly roots, Larry lived with the unshakable confidence that he had been transformed by the gospel and called by God for a greater purpose.

Larry Michael Chandler will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He lived fully, loved deeply, served faithfully, and now enters his next chapter with the Lord.