Larry Parker Willerson, 71, of Chattanooga, passed away on August 2, 2021, after losing his battle with leukemia.
Larry was born on Sept. 1, 1949 to John Grover and Virginia Willerson. He attended Central High School in Chattanooga. He married Deborah (Debbie) Hall on Nov. 13, 1971 in Chattanooga. He continued his education by graduating with a bachelor of business from Tennessee Wesleyan. He worked as a sales representative for Beeler Impression Products for over 38 years.
He served in the Army from 1968 through 1972; a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he served as a tank driver, earning his National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with ’60 Device, three Overseas Service Bars, Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal, SPS Quality Badge, and the rank of E7, before exiting service with an honorable discharge.
Larry was an aficionado of Harley Davidson Motorcycles, a collector of antique guns and a connoisseur of chocolate and peanut butter. He had many talents, but his gift of gab was the one that everyone enjoyed, as I am sure his neighbors will agree. You could always count on a lengthy conversation and a good belly laugh out in the front yard.
Larry was a proud vet. Any time he saw a fellow veteran, he always stopped and said thank you for your service, which was followed by a handshake and a big smile.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents, John Willerson and Virginia Raby; step-father, Lawrence Raby; a sister, Phyllis Walker; and brothers, Roger Willerson, John (Buster) Willerson and Steve Willerson, Sr.
Larry is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; his daughter, Michele Paty (Dan Overton Sims); his grandson, Parker Overton Paty; sister-in-law, Linda Starr; brothers-in-law, Jimmy Hall (Virginia) and Ronald Cadorette; plus many nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to extend its sincere thanks to Dr. Bertrand Anz, his staff and the staff at Memorial Oncology Department for the care and treatment they offered over the past several months.
There will be a private service of family to be held at a later date. Thank you for your prayers and condolences.