Larry Ray Clere, aged 86, passed away peacefully in his home on March 22, 2024, in Grand Ridge, FL. Born on March 10, 1938, in Huntington, WV, Larry was a man of courage, friendliness, and kindness, touching the lives of all who knew him.
Larry began his career as an Aircraft and Jet Engine Mechanic in the United States Air Force on June 27, 1956, he served 20 years, 6 months, and 4 days and continued his career as a civilian at Pratt and Whitney from July 1977 to July 1993 in West Palm Beach. Larry settled in Grand Ridge, FL, thirty years ago, having relocated from West Palm Beach, FL. In Grand Ridge, he found a welcoming community and became a familiar face to many. His commitment to his faith was evident through his attendance and membership at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, where he formed lasting relationships with fellow congregants. Larry was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and a past adjutant as well as Life Member of Sons of Confederate Veterans, Theophilus West, MD Camp #1346. In 2015, he authored a book titled, “Where Our Past Heros Lie”.
Larry’s adventurous spirit shone through his passion for travel, most notably his cherished cruises to Alaska, Hawaii, Cuba, and the Caribbean with his beloved wife, Marilyn J. Clere, who predeceased him, and their daughter, Laurie R. Roberge. Equally, Larry found solace and joy in frequent trips with his family and friends to Las Vegas, enjoying many wonderful shows and concerts like Cher and Elton John, creating countless memories that are cherished by those he leaves behind.
He was predeceased by his father, Cecil Harold Clere, his mother, Marie Eleanor Adkins Meredith, his wife, Marilyn J. Clere; three sisters, Sharon Ann, Karen Sue and Melanie Kay; two brothers, Gary Gene and Jerry David Clere as well as two special friends, Fred and Vi Bishop. Left to honor his legacy and remember his warmth are his daughter, Laurie R. Roberge; his sister, Lynda Eden; his sister “MiMi” Nance (Bill); his sisters-in-law, Roberta Stewart, Jean Hash, and Carolyn Clay; and he will be missed dearly by his close circle of special friends, Gary and Arlene Bishop, with whom he had a profound bond, and their adult children, Cindy LeFort and David Bishop.
Larry’s life story is one of dedication to his country, love for his family, and fellowship with his friends. He will be forever remembered as a courageous, friendly, and kind-hearted man, a consummate storyteller who brought laughter and light to every room. Larry Ray Clere leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
A special thank you goes out to Tommy and Tresa Wood and the entire Stethoscope Staffing and in-home care team as well as the Covenant Hospice care team from Larry’s family, “we couldn’t have done this without you.”
A funeral service celebrating the life of Larry will be held on Friday, March 29, 2024, beginning at 11:00 AM Central Time in the chapel of McAlpin Funeral Home. A time of visitation with his family will begin one hour prior to the funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating in Larry’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, a cause near and dear to his heart.
