Larry Johnson

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Larry Dale Johnson, 80, of Neosho, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He was born on November 30, 1944, in Edmond, Oklahoma, to Roy Alfred and Martha Ruth (Brandenburg) Johnson.

Larry grew up in Goodman, Missouri, and graduated from Seneca High School in Seneca, Missouri. On January 19, 1963, he married his high school sweetheart, Julia “Judy” Ann Boman, in Goodman. Their loving union lasted over 62 years.

Soon after, Larry began a distinguished career in the United States Navy, serving more than 29 years as a yeoman and rising to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. In his later years of service, he proudly served as a Navy recruiter in Joplin, Missouri, where he inspired many to serve their country.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Larry was a man who put family first. He coached his sons’ baseball teams and shared his love of chess with them. His legacy of service continued through his son Jim who served in Desert Storm, daughter Cynthia Ann who served in the Navy, and granddaughter Darby who is currently deployed serving in the Navy.

Larry loved the outdoors — especially fishing trips to Ponderosa and Grand Lake in Grove, Missouri — and treasured family camping adventures. He enjoyed playing Pitch and other card games with close friends. An avid reader with a passion for Westerns, he proudly collected and read every Louis L’Amour book. Larry was a member of the Swars Prairie Church of Christ in Seneca, Missouri, where his faith remained a central part of his life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; sons Jimmy D. Johnson (Michelle L.) of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Bryan W. Johnson of Seneca, Missouri; brother Kenneth D. Johnson (Glenda) of Edmond, Oklahoma; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Cynthia Ann Johnson; granddaughter Hellen Pilarz; and sister Jeanetta Ruth.

Friends are invited to pay their respects at the family home beginning Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. through Monday evening, May 12. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Swars Prairie Church of Christ Cemetery in Seneca, Missouri.

Flowers may be sent to the family home at 1727 Fawn Dr., Neosho, Missouri 64850.

Larry’s life of service, integrity, and quiet strength will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.