Obituary
Lawrence E French passed away on August 28, 2022, in The Villages, FL after a short battle with cancer. He was 79 years old.
He is survived by his wife of 10 years Connie French and four children Michelle, Janine, Michael and David., 10 grandchildren and one great granddaughter, five stepchildren and seven step grandchildren.
Larry was born on July 18th, 1943, in Chicago, IL. He is preceded in death by his parents Josephine and Edwin and 3 brothers Jerry, Curtis and Allen and survived by his sister Darlene and brother Brian,
He graduated from the University of Toledo with a degree in International Trade. During college he was part of the Army ROTC and upon graduation resumed active duty, He reached the rank of Captain while serving for 6 years including 1 year (1968-1969) in Vietnam in 199th AVN (Swamp Fox) unit as a Bird Dog pilot. After the Army he relocated to Georgia where he was a financial planner and claims adjuster.
A devout member of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Belleview, Fl. Larry spent his early years serving as a Deacon in the Atlanta Georgia Diocese. He began his service in Saints Peter and Paul Church in Decatur Georgia and served at other churches in the metro Atlanta area. A champion of human rights Larry promoted equality in housing and was honored by Metro Fair Housing and the Governor of Georgia.
He retired and moved to The Villages, Florida where he enjoyed playing softball, golf and bowling. He was an avid traveler and with his wife Connie visited many countries worldwide.
Larry always had a smile on his face and will be greatly missed.
His final resting place will be Honey Creek Woodland (a nature preserve) in Conyers, GA. (at a later date)
There will be a Mass at St. Peter and Paul Church in Decatur, GA on Saturday December 3rd at 11am. Lunch and Celebration of his life to follow.
Please direct any donations to help Veterans Organizations in your area.
I just learned of Larry’s death this evening. 12/26/23. I’m sorry and express my condolences.
Larry worked for me as an adjuster for several years. He was a consummate professional. He was a Vietnam Hero and saved lives even after he returned.
He also served as Deacon for several years while I was a member of the choir at St. John Neumann in the 90’s. I’ll never forget how Larry closed each Mass. I hear his resounding words so clearly in my head. “ The Mass never ends. It must be lived.”
Rest in Peace my friend.