Larry McCormick

Larry Dean McCormick, 80, of Henderson, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at a hospital in Springfield, Missouri just months after celebrating a joyful 80th birthday surrounded by over 50 friends and family members. Born on March 19, 1945, in Quincy, Illinois, Larry was the beloved son of Lester T. and Yvette E. McCormick.

Larry married his first wife, Sharon Sue Friday of Mount Sterling, Illinois, in 1964. Together they moved to the Quad Cities, where they built a life and started a family. Larry began his long and accomplished career with JI Case, starting as a guard at the Rock Island Farmall Plant and rising through the ranks to retire as an Executive Senior Buyer. He was proud of his work, respected by his colleagues, and well-loved in the community he served.

Following his divorce in 1991, Larry met the love of his life, Judy Marie Anderson. They married on October 12, 1991, and spent nearly three decades together. Larry was a devoted husband who cared for Judy faithfully, especially during her final years, until her passing in 2020.

Larry had an infectious love for life. Known for his warm heart and quick smile, he made friends wherever he went. He was the kind of man everyone was grateful to know—generous, joyful, and deeply kind. He was not only an amazing husband, but also a cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Upon his retirement in 1995, Larry followed his dream and moved to Henderson, Arkansas, where he purchased a beautiful lakeside home on Lake Norfork in 2001. He spent his days fishing, boating, and traveling the country in an RV with Judy. The peace of the lake and the freedom of the open road brought him great happiness.

Larry is survived by his four children: sons Dale Herron, Paul McCormick, and Andrew Volk, and his daughter Stephanie Walter. He also leaves behind several grandchildren and a great-grandchild, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

In accordance with his wishes, Larry was cremated, and his ashes will be lovingly scattered at Mendon Cemetery in Mendon, Illinois, where generations of his family rest. He requested no viewing or funeral service; instead, a “Remembrance Ceremony” will be held in the coming months to honor and celebrate the extraordinary life he lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Hospice of the Ozarks, in gratitude for the compassionate care they provided to Larry’s beloved wife, Judy.

Larry Dean McCormick was a light in the lives of all who knew him, and though he is gone, his spirit, stories, and love will remain with us forever. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.