Larry Eugene Garrison

Larry Eugene Garrison, 76, known affectionately as Larry to friends and family, passed away suddenly at his home, Thursday, June 6, 2024. Born on October 19, 1947, in Bourbon, MO to his parents, Dean Jones and Delma Garrison, Larry was a lifelong resident of his beloved hometown where he lived a life marked by faith, humor, and dedication to his loved ones.

Larry spent his youth in Bourbon, where he attended local schools and graduated from Bourbon High School in 1965. During his school years, he was an avid athlete, taking pleasure in playing baseball and basketball. After high school, Larry ventured to work in St. Louis where he began his career with Boeing, before becoming a valued employee at the Pea Ridge Mine until its closure.

The year 1973 marked a milestone in Larry's life when he married the love of his life, Brenda Beebe, on May 26th in Vernon, TX. Together, they were blessed with two daughters, Belinda Kristina and Melissa Dianne. In 1979, the family moved to Vernon, where Larry honed his skills as a welder, working with Dorlands and Buck's Welding Shop. His career path eventually led him back to Bourbon, where he briefly worked for Carden, then returned to Boeing as a quality inspector, taking pride in his contributions to the Apache Helicopters.

Larry retired in 2013 from Orco Precision Machine in Cuba, MO, capping off a career characterized by diligence and a meticulous eye for detail. His commitment to his community was evident in his involvement as a board member at the Lifeline Pregnancy Center, where he volunteered his time to support this ministry.  In most recent years, Larry served as a beloved member of the staff of the Eaton Funeral Home where he assisted with visitations and funerals and a role he cherished deeply.

A man of deep faith, Larry was an active and devoted member of the Lasting Hope Assembly of God Church in Bourbon. He served as a deacon for many years, fulfilling various roles including treasurer and secretary. His voice was a familiar one at church, whether leading songs, managing the sound, or simply engaging in fellowship with his church family at fish fries and men's breakfasts.

Larry's talents extended beyond his professional life into his hobbies and interests. He was a handy person, always ready to create or fix just about anything. His skills in woodworking and welding were not just practical but also a source of joy. His garden was a testament to his green thumb, and the salsa and jelly he made from its bounty were relished by all who tasted them. Larry’s love for grilling and barbecuing was well-known, and his expertise in cooking raccoons was a particular point of pride and a topic of many light-hearted conversations.

Above all, Larry will be remembered as a friendly, faith-filled, and handy man who brought laughter and joy to those around him. He was a known jokester, always ready to share a laugh or pull a prank, bringing smiles to the faces of friends and family alike. His presence was a warm and comforting one, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Larry is survived by his loving daughters:  Kristi Scott and husband, Jeff of Bourbon, MO and Melissa Popp and husband, Reuben of St. Clair, MO; three precious grandchildren:  Dessa “Paige” Scott and Corvin & Hagen Popp; his siblings:  Linda Inskip, Darla Hatfield and husband Richard all of Rolla, MO, and Dean Jones Jr. of Bourbon, MO; his mother-in-law, Doretta Beebe of Poplar Bluff, MO; two brothers-in-law: Larry Beebe and wife, Barbara and Randy Beebe and wife, Melody all of Poplar Bluff, MO; and numerous, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda in 2022; parents, Delma Garrison and Dean Jones Sr.; father-in-law, Rev. Jimmie Beebe; and a niece, Brandy Beebe.

Services will be 11:00 AM, Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at the Lasting Hope Assembly of God Church in Bourbon with Pastors Jeff Scott, James Austin, and Frank Brooks officiating.  Burial will follow at the Bourbon Cemetery, Bourbon.

Visitation will be 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at the Lasting Hope Assembly of God Church, Bourbon.

Memorial contributions may be given in Larry’s memory to Lifeline Pregnancy Care Center of Cuba, MO.

Friends may share condolences online with Larry’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.