Paul Lawrence "Larry" Saunders

Paul Lawrence “Larry” Saunders, born to Virgil L. and Lucille Curry Saunders on October 15, 1941, passed away peacefully January 27, 2025, at home with his family. He married the love of his life, Mary V. Crump, in December 1967; and they recently celebrated 57 years of marriage. A 1959 graduate of Gallia Academy, Larry worked as a produce manager at various local grocery stores until his retirement. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

Larry is survived by his wife, Mary; sons, Tom (Julie) Saunders of Columbus, OH and Jeff Saunders of Gallipolis, OH; daughters, Lorrie (Keith) Wright of Gallipolis Ferry, WV and Kristi (Chris) Close of Centerville, IN; and his brother, Richard (Roberta) Saunders of Myrtle Beach, SC and sister-in-law, Patricia Saunders, of Merrit Island, FL.  He was a proud grandfather to Brandon (Ashly) Saunders of Des Moines, IA, Tiffany (Adam) Genovese of Gallipolis, Jordan (Codi) Close of Richmond, IN, Andy (Elizabeth) Saunders of Powell, OH, Benjamin Close of Richmond, IN, Emma Diehl of Gallipolis Ferry, WV, Hunter (Fayth) Close of Richmond, IN, Levi Wright of Gallipolis Ferry, WV, and Ethan Saunders of Gallipolis, OH. He also leaves behind seventeen great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Bill” W. Saunders and sister, Patty Selvage.

Larry was very quick to laugh, often reciting jokes and songs from his childhood; and he loved making holidays—especially Christmas and Halloween—special for his children. He shared his father’s passion for gardening; and together with Mary, they turned their small lot into a bountiful garden each year.

A lifelong sports fan, Larry enjoyed watching any type of sports, often with the radio on as well. His favorite team, however, was the Ohio State Buckeyes; and he loved adding collectible pieces to his “Buckeye Room."

Larry’s passing has left a void that cannot be filled, but his memories and legacy will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him.

Services will be held at Willis Funeral Home on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Bob Hood officiating. The Gallia County Funeral Detail will provide military honors. Burial will follow at Ohio Valley Memory Gardens. Larry’s grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Friends may call prior to the service from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Friends calling are encouraged to honor Larry by wearing OSU colors or apparel.