L. D. (Larry) LaPlue, Jr. passed away at age 89 on June 1st, 2023 in his home in Talbott, TN, looking out over the lake that he so enjoyed. He was preceded in death by parents Lawrence Dale LaPlue, Sr. and Sybil Irue Person LaPlue. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Anna Fay Chapman LaPlue; sister Sybil Gale LaPlue Norman; sons Larry Dale (Darlene) LaPlue and David (Karen) LaPlue; 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Larry was born in Shreveport, LA on February 9, 1934 and grew up across the state in Newellton. He married his childhood sweetheart Anna Fay on December 19, 1955. Larry earned a BS from Louisiana Tech, an MS in Agricultural Engineering from Clemson University and served in the Army. After working as an engineer in the materials’ handling industry for a half-dozen years,

Larry began his own overhead crane business – Engineered Systems, Inc. in 1969 in Greenville, SC. Throughout his 60 year career he enjoyed a reputation among his associates for excellence in his workmanship and an unwavering commitment to integrity.

Throughout his life he had a ready sense of humor that brought countless hours of delight to his family and friends. His ability to provide levity and pleasure in many situations was a particular source of encouragement for many who spent time with him.

Larry also invested significantly in his community, particularly by helping people who were hurting, felt left out, or struggled with addictions. Although having his businesses succeed was important, he believed that that success was secondary to loving the people around him. He did that by, among other things, being a generous giver – whether it was wise counsel, finances or time.

Larry was passionate about the benefits that political and economic liberty could provide to people, but he believed that hope is ultimately found in the inexhaustible grace of Jesus Christ. His favorite author was George MacDonald who greatly influenced his understanding of what it means to follow Christ.

Larry was deeply committed to his family. His character was one that led by example, instilling values of compassion, steadfastness, and integrity in the hearts of his children and grandchildren.

He was a beautiful example of a life well-lived. The family will receive friends in an informal drop-in setting from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on June 16, 2023 at 1505 Country Club Drive in Morristown. This will be a time of visiting, sharing and remembrance for all who knew or were affected by Larry.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM at Lakeshore Baptist Church in Talbott on June 17.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan House, Celebrate Recovery (Manley Baptist Church) or Camp Celebrate (Luke 14 Ministries.)

Arrangements by Baldwin Cremation & Mortuary Service.