Larry King, 71, Versailles

Larry L. King, 71, of Versailles passed away at his home on August 8, 2024.  Larry was born February 25, 1953, in Milan. After graduating from South Ripley High School in 1971, he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly J.  Back.  Larry and Beverly raised two sons, Jeffrey and Ryan (Lea Ann).

Larry worked long hours as a machinist at Cummins Engine Corp. to provide for his family, always putting family first.  After 42 years, Larry retired in 2016.  Larry also raised tobacco, and although it was hard work, some of the best family memories were made in the fields.

Larry took time off to spend with the family he and Beverly built together.  He looked forward to vacationing with his family and making memories with his grandson, Nash, and granddaughter, Hadlee. The “kids” as Larry called them will hold these memories close to their heart.   Larry enjoyed time with his family, especially Nash and Hadlee, who were his pride and joy.  Traveling near and far to watch Nash’s swim meet(s) and Hadlee’s dance competition(s).  Many weekends Larry would have the “kids” over so he could spoil them.   The “kids” will always remember these wonderful times just hanging out at Grandma and Papaw’s.

Larry was well known for his big heart and sense of humor.  Bringing a smile or laughter to the face of family and friends is was what he truly cherished most.  He always looked forward to cutting up with his bowling buddies on Monday evenings.   A good time and laughter were always in the air when Larry was around.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved son Jeffrey L. King.   The loss of Jeffrey was frequently on his mind.  He spoke of Jeffrey often, keeping his memory alive.  Their Heavenly reunion brings immeasurable joy for both them and us.  Larry was also preceded in death by his mother Pauline Turner, father Orlester King, step-father George Turner, father-in-law Orville Back, mother-in-law Evalee Back, brother Wayne King, and sister-in-law Marsha Back.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Beverly, son Ryan, daughter-in-law Lea Ann, grandchildren Nash and Hadlee, brothers Danny Joe King and Billy (Pam) Turner, sisters Tera (Ken) Benefiel and Cheri (Rick) Burcham, sisters-in-law Linda King, Brenda (Paul) Wilson, Belinda (Ed) Jane, Benita Back, and brothers-in-law Mike Back and Mark (Brinda) Back.   Larry is also survived by many nieces and nephews.   The entire family misses him, and look forward to seeing him on the other side.

Visitation will be held at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home, Versailles, on Thursday, August 15, from 4:00-7:00 PM with services beginning at 7:00 PM, with Rev. Rick Burcham officiating.  Larry will be interred at Memorial Gardens Cemetery Friday, August 16, at 10:00 AM. Memorials may be made to SEI Voices for Children CASA, care of the Stratton-Karsteter funeral home.