Larry Staples

Reverend Lawrence Walton Staples, Jr. (Larry), 67, of Lenoir, passed away Monday, March 9 at Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care – Lenoir. He was born on March 21, 1952 in Columbia, South Carolina to the late Lawrence Walton Staples, Sr. and Dorothy Kirby Staples. In addition to his wife of 45 years, Donna Hart Staples, he is survived by two daughters Kelli Brentnell (Jonathan) of Salisbury and Hannah Romero (William) of Lenoir; three grandchildren James Walton “Walt” and Charles Gabriel “Charlie” Brentnell and Gabriella “Gabby” Romero. Larry was a United Methodist minister for 30 years, 13 of which he spent at First United Methodist Church of Lenoir. He had a special love for youth ministry and continued to be active in all aspects of FUMC – Lenoir. He loved growing and selling (and sometimes giving away) flowers at the Lenoir and Sawmills Farmer’s Markets. Larry was also an avid supporter of Duke University athletics. He always put others before himself. He was kind, generous, and never met a stranger. A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at First United Methodist Church – Lenoir, on Thursday, March 12, 2020 at 2:00 PM with Reverend Dr. Dave Melton officiating. There will be a reception in the Christian Life Center immediately following the service. Memorials may be sent to the Youth Travel Fund or the Backpack Ministry, First United Methodist Church, 309 Church Street, Lenoir, NC28645.