Larry Burgess, age 81, passed away on August 21, 2026.

Born on February 2, 1945, in Paducah, Kentucky, Larry spent his early years rooted in the rural farmlands of western Kentucky. Those early days cultivated a lifelong appreciation for hard work, nature, and simple pleasures—as well as an unwavering, die-hard devotion to University of Kentucky basketball. 

Larry moved to Memphis in middle school. Following high school, he met Nita at Peabody Baptist Church, and the two were married on July 10, 1965, beginning 61 years of devotion together. A dedicated man in every aspect of life, Larry spent 35 years at Dover Elevator before retiring. He was also a faithful member of New Hope Christian Church since 2001.

When he wasn’t cheering on his beloved Wildcats, Larry enjoyed spending time outdoors in his garden, crafting in his woodworking shop, reading, or catching up on Western and sci-fi movies.

Above all, Larry’s greatest joy was his family. His favorite role came with grandparenthood, when he affectionately became known as "Papa." He was his family's biggest fan, rarely missing a chance to cheer from the stands at his grandchildren’s sporting events. He cherished family vacations, creating unforgettable memories along the Gulf Coast, in the Smoky Mountains, and amidst the magic of Disney World.

Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Helen; his father, Bert; his step-father, Bill Barron; his sisters, Janice (Harold) Russelburg and Betty (Paul) Dillon; and his brother, Don Burgess. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nita Burgess; his sister, Carolyn Dunevant (and her late husband, Bobby); his daughters, Tracy (Lee) Heaton and Lori (Brian) Bogenreif; and his cherished grandchildren, Abbey Heaton, Emily Cooper, Chase Heaton, Jack Bogenreif, and Owen Bogenreif, along with extended family and dear friends.

Service  Information All services will be held at Forest Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park – East, located at 2440 Whitten Rd, Memphis, TN 38133.

Visitation: Tuesday, August 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 

Funeral Service: Tuesday, August 25, 2026, beginning at 2:00 PM

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Larry's honor to the American Cancer Society.