Larry A. “Daddy Larry” Smotherman, 86, of Owens Cross Roads, AL, passed away on November 29, 2023 after a battle with cancer.
Larry was born on June 3, 1937 to W. L. and Mary Lucille Smotherman and Berneda Smotherman in Crawford County, IL. After high school graduation, he went on to serve in the United States Navy from 1956 -1959 as a Crew Chief on the USS Hancock (CVA-19) working on FJ-3M Furies.
After his honorable service in the Navy, Larry worked for TVA in various skilled trades and as a Crane Operator and member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local No. 320 until his retirement in 1999. After retirement, Larry spent his time working in his garage building race cars with his son and tinkering with small engines.
On July 3, 1959, Larry married his beloved wife, Nelwyn Jean “GeeGee” Smotherman in Huntsville, AL. Larry and Jean went on to have two children, Scott Smotherman and Gina Gwathney.
Larry was predeceased by his parents, W.L. and Mary Lucille Smotherman and Berneda Smotherman and his beloved wife of 58 years, Nelwyn Jean Smotherman.
He is survived by his son, Scott (Jonni) Smotherman and daughter, Gina Gwathney. Grandchildren Paige and Piper Smotherman, Hannah (David) Bibby and Ryan Gwathney. Special family friend Vince Shumber and sister-in-laws Glenda Shumber, Linda McConnell and Drucilla Tabor and several nieces & nephews.
No services are planned at this time.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to VA charities or local homeless shelters.
