Larry was born October 15th, 1949 in Middlesboro, KY to the late Clayton Smith and Gracie (Hatfield) Smith, and he considered himself quite fortunate to have connected with his Hatfield relatives in Middlesboro this past summer after many years. After attending high school at Bloomington High, Larry walked on for the Indiana University football team for a semester before transferring to Abilene Christian College in Texas and graduating with a bachelor's degree in business. Fortunately, a new job brought him to the northern Indiana area, where a cousin introduced him to a pretty waitress, the loving woman who became his wife of 45 years. Larry and Susanne (Tschetter) settled in the Mishawaka area as he began work in the RV industry, eventually serving 35 loyal years at Atwood Mobile Products in Elkhart. As a proud father, he coached his children's many baseball, softball, soccer, and back-yard teams and attended their numerous concerts and activities.

He is survived by his "lovely bride", Susanne (Tschetter) Smith, brother-in-law Quinton (Carolyn) Tschetter, sister-in-law Jaurene (Tschetter) Traub, and brother-in-law Lyndon/Chet (Anne) Tschetter. He is also survived by his children whom he coached, tickled, wisely raised, and fiercely loved: Emily (Ryan) Hemker and Ian (Molly) Smith; and it must be said that his son-in-law and daughter-in-law were truly additional children in Larry's heart. Known affectionately as "Papa", he is survived by his adoring grandchildren Ruah (15), Atira (13), Elyanah (10), Nissa (6), Connor (2), and Evelyn (9 months), who never had enough of his fun and hugs. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Barbara (Smith) Emhuff. The many who knew him know that Larry lived to love his God whole-heartedly and love his "neighbors" generously: with his family, his church, at the rugby pitch, he knew no strangers. And, filled with the love of Christ himself, Larry gave Christ's love freely.

All are invited to a viewing Sunday at River Valley Church from 3 to 6pm. A second viewing will begin Monday at 9am with a service at 10 followed by a private gravesite service. All are also welcome to attend lunch at River Valley upon the family's return from the gravesite service. If you'd like to make a donation in Larry's honor, please give to the outreach ministry of your choice, such as Hope Rescue Mission, Operation BBQ Relief, Salvation Army, etc. More information: chapelhillmemorial.com .