Herbert Larry Linn was born to Herbert O. and Gladys L. Coffman Linn on Jan. 14, 1945, in Miami, OK as the youngest sibling of four. Betty (Ralph) Mullen of Miami, OK, Robert (Janice) Linn of Grove, OK and Kenneth (Sharlotte) Linn of Fort Smith, AR survive along with a host of nieces, nephews and cousins, which he cherished. He married Donna Martin in Miami, OK on December 23, 1967. Their family was blessed with two children: Michael Don (Amy) Linn and granddaughters Maggie and Zoe of Springfield, MO and Jennifer Ruth (Aaron) Little and grandsons Jude, Ezra, and Amos of Joplin, MO.
Larry wore many hats throughout his lifetime: son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, but his proudest title was a faithful follower of Christ who genuinely cared about people. He held his credentials with the Assemblies of God for a number of years, serving in numerous ministry capacities: interim pastor, Sunday school teacher, and multiple terms on church boards. He and his wife, Donna, even served as missionary assistants outside Window Rock, AZ shortly after they were married. Much of his service was behind the scenes, necessary but unseen by most.
Professionally, Larry operated a semi-tractor with over a million miles to his credit. He earned his Specialist Degree in Education from Missouri State University and began his education career teaching students to build cabinets and furniture in Golden City, MO. He pursued school administration there and in Carthage and ultimately retired as Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Carthage. He also served as President of the Missouri Association of Business Officials.
In his free time, Larry enjoyed working with his hands, bringing salvage vehicles back to life, building furniture and cabinets, traveling, and keeping his lawn in tip-top shape. He didn’t like to be in the limelight but was always willing to lend a hand in any way he could. He had a quick wit and liked to joke, but was just as quick to offer bits of wisdom and encouragement. To those who knew him best, he was a loyal friend, a faithful and loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, a hunter, a golfer, and motorcycle rider. He lived life to the fullest, but always kept his commitments to God, family, and friends in focus.
Private family services will be held on Tuesday, December 1, 2020, in the G.A.R. Cemetery in Miami, OK due to Covid-19.
Larry will lie in state on Monday, November 30th from 11:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. at Ulmer Funeral Home for anyone who would like to pay their respects and sign the guest book.
Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
