Larry Michael Berry, 82

Larry Michael Berry (1944-2026) With deep heartbreak and countless cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Larry Berry, 82, of Madisonville, KY, who passed away at his home in Madisonville, with his wife, Maureen C. Berry, and Cooper, their wire fox terrier, at his side. Larry was born to the late Walter Harold Berry and Mary “Nettie” Francis Oglesby Berry. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his grandson and great-granddaughter, as well as his wire fox terrier, Reagan. Larry was raised in western Kentucky with his older sister, Sandra, who kept a close eye on her sweet younger brother, and vice versa. He learned to appreciate nature and wildlife by watching his father grow tomatoes and his mother plant bearded iris in their small garden at the house where he grew up. He squirrel-hunted with his father, Harold, who couldn’t see in his later years—Larry was his father’s eyes. Larry’s appreciation for the outdoors grew—he loved to golf, duck hunt, fish, and later, birdwatch in his woods, which he nicknamed Hummingbird Hills. Larry was a United States Air Force veteran attached to the 101st and fought courageously in the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge, drawing on the discipline the service instilled, he took the trucking and logistics industry by storm, first in sales. Once recognized by The Wall Street Journal for his stellar performance, respect, and charisma, he became a co-founder of Landstar. He continued in the industry as a self-employed man, willing to gamble on the lifestyle that came with it—some great years, some lean years. He worked in Mergers and Acquisitions, managed a trucking agency, and in the last year of his life, he started another Acquisition. Larry was a selfless, fun, private man with a sly wit. Corny, even. He had a generous, infectious laugh and was well-mannered and courteous, but also had a fiery streak called pride. He loved dancing in the kitchen to Michael McDonald. He loved Lady Gaga, Train, Michael Bublé, Luciano Pavarotti, and The Rolling Stones. His nickname was Elvis because at a breakfast joint in southern Georgia, he once bought a $2 fake ID featuring a picture of Elvis Presley but listing Larry’s name and address. He got a lot of mileage out of that fake ID! He loved being near the ocean whenever he could, loved driving fast cars, and loved his family. His special joy—his wire fox terriers. Larry is survived by the love of his life, Maureen, with whom he shared eighteen years; his daughters, Debi (Pete) Kasap and their beautiful, growing family; Dawn (Sean) Mooningham and her beautiful children: Erik (Summer) Stokes, Sara (Scotty) Stokes, and Jimmy Stiveson; his daughters’ mother and friend, Connie Berry; his nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren; his sister, Sandra (Bill) Wasilina, and their family; his first cousin, Karen (Bunny) Vickers, and her family. Lastly, his beloved Cooper, who rescued him and Maureen after Reagan died. Larry Berry lived life on his own terms. He was ready for God’s open arms and for that long drink of iced-cold water that only God can provide, ad infinitum. Larry was a one-of-a-kind man, and he will be greatly missed. No services are scheduled at this time.