Larry William Whittle

Larry William Whittle, 73, of Ivy Bend, Mo., passed away Friday, July 29, 2022, at Golden Age Living Center in Stover, Mo. Larry was born July 5, 1949, in Mexico, Mo., a son of George and Lucy Rose (Zehender) Whittle, who preceded him in death. On January 15, 1983, in Jefferson City, he married the love of his life, Janice Eileen Merrick, who survives of the home. Larry served 23 years with the Missouri Department of Corrections as a Correctional Officer in Jefferson City. He also served his country honorably in the United States Navy during Vietnam. He served from 1969 to 1971 on the USS Hancock, the first US Navy carrier to have steam catapults installed. Larry enjoyed drinking a beer, listening to classic country and rock music, and playing lottery tickets and cards. He loved all animals, especially his dogs, Penny and Elvis. He was constantly concerned about cleanliness and asked everyone, "Have you washed your hands?" Larry knew Jesus and his Savior and was of the Baptist faith. In addition to his wife of 39 years, he is survived by his daughter, Vicky Johnston (Randy) of Ivy Bend; one brother, David Whittle (Carol) of Loose Creek, Mo.; two sisters, Laura Davenport and Vicki Brumley, both of Jefferson City; seven grandchildren, Brian, Angel, Crystal, Danielle, Michael, Justin, and Lindsay; 22 great-grandchildren; and two great-great- grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Gene Newton and Buford Whittle; and four sisters, Ruth Dean, Mary Lou Sisk, Peggy Piney, and Mary Lou Perkins. Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Scrivner-Page-Dady Funeral Home in Stover, Mo. with Don Willis officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to service time at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Hickory Hill Baptist Cemetery in Eugene, Mo. with full military rendered by the US Navy, American Legion Post #304, and the Missouri Patriot Guard Riders. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Ozarks Kat and K9 Shelter, 17290 Missouri Highway 5 North, Sunrise Beach, MO 65079.