Larry Nolan Williams, Sr., 96, of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 5th surrounded by the love of a family that meant everything to him. His life was marked by dedication to his country, a long and successful career, and above all, an unwavering devotion to his family.

Larry was born and raised in Corbin, Kentucky. Over the years, he also lived briefly in Metairie, Louisiana; Jackson, Mississippi; and Jacksonville, Florida, before becoming a longtime resident of Fountain City in Knoxville and Strawberry Plains, Tennessee.

A proud veteran, Larry served in the U.S. Air Force from 1947 to 1950 as a communications specialist. He was stationed at Itazuke Air Base in Fukuoka, Japan, where he served his country during the postwar years.

Following his military service, Larry built a remarkable career in the tire industry. He spent countless hours traveling the mountains and hills of East Tennessee and Eastern Kentucky, visiting strip-mining locations to sell and service tires for oversized trucks and heavy machinery. He ultimately served as general manager of Free Service Truck Tire Center for 37 years, earning the respect of the many people with whom he worked.

But Larry's greatest pride was his family. He was a loving father who made being there for his children a priority, even while working more than 40 hours a week. He rarely missed an important moment: Little League games for John, track events for Charlotte, Central High School chorale performances where Katie sang, and conferences where Larry Jr. served as a keynote speaker. His children always knew they could count on him to be there, cheering them on.

Larry was especially proud that all four of his children graduated from the University of Tennessee. An avid Volunteers fan, he followed Tennessee athletics with enthusiasm—except, of course, when the Vols played his beloved Kentucky.

Larry was married to Barbara Beard for 41 years. Together, they shared many wonderful years, creating lasting memories that Larry cherished throughout his life. Barbara preceded him in death in 1996.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, Reed and Exie Williams of Corbin, Kentucky; his brothers, Don, Foyster, and Terry Williams; and his sister, Emogene Helton.

He leaves behind his four children: Larry Jr. (Allison), Charlotte Griggs (Mark), Nancy (Katie) Collier (John), and John T. (Jodie). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Stephanie Crosby (Tommy), Ben Collier, Kelly Langston (Brandon), Chris Collier (Hayden), Ryan Williams (Molly), Daniel Williams (Savannah), Michael Williams, Samuel Williams (Gabby), Rachel Williams, Will Getz, and Jacob Epperson; as well as 11 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by Allen Williams, Denise, Rod Helton, Tom Helton, Debra Teeter, and Robin.

Larry's life was one of hard work, service, loyalty, and love. His greatest legacy will not be measured by his years of work or accomplishments, but by the family he loved so deeply and the many lives he touched along the way. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Jefferson County Habitat for Humanity in Jefferson County, Tennessee, or Strawberry Plains Presbyterian Church in Strawberry Plains, Tennessee.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. EST on November 7, 2026, at Strawberry Plains Presbyterian Church in Strawberry Plains, Tennessee. Graveside burial will follow.

Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the Williams family.   Condolences may be shared at www.williamsfh.com