Larry Brunson was called home to be with the Lord on May 29, 2021. Larry was born on January 26, 1953 in Newport News, Virginia. He was the fourth of seven children and second of two sons born to the late Clarence Vander Brunson and Ella Louise Peace Brunson. He was a lifelong member of Greater Walters A.M.E. Zion church in Newport News, Virginia, where he worshipped with his family. Larry was very active in church in his youth. He participated in various youth ministries and was a member of the Altar choir.
Larry was whip-smart! He possessed one of the keenest minds in the family. He excelled in school, even at an early age. It was often regaled how, in the second grade, Larry took a city-wide standardized test, and scored the highest of anyone in the city. Larry attended Dunbar Elementary School, and it was there that he discovered his love for music. Larry attended George Washington Carver High School in Newport News, Virginia, where he played trumpet in the marching band. He would later graduate as a member of Carver’s final graduating class in 1971. After high school, Larry attended Norfolk State University, where he studied political science. During his college years, he was very active in local politics, serving as a volunteer on the campaigns of many locally elected politicians. Later on, Larry followed in his father’s and brother’s footsteps, serving in the United States Army, from which he received an honorable discharge.
Larry lived a full life. He was surrounded by the people he loved, who loved him back. He loved to travel, loved good food, and he loved music, particularly jazz. He was the best storyteller (How we will miss his stories!), and he was a great son, brother, uncle and friend. He was fun-loving, cool, and very easy-going, and he had impeccable manners. He had the biggest heart imaginable and the very best smile. He was a teddy bear on the one hand, and a fierce protector on the other. He always made time to call and check on each of us, and to let us know he was thinking of us. He was extremely caring, incredibly generous, and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. He was patient, loving and kind. He was our Larry, and he will be sorely missed.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents and late sisters, Ethel D. Brunson and Phyllis R. Brunson, but he leaves to cherish his memory, his siblings Barbara C. Hines of Hampton, VA; Curtis C. Brunson (Patricia) of Hampton, VA; Anita B. Williams of Newport News, VA; and Cheryl D. Brunson of Stafford, VA. Larry was an beloved nephew to Hilda L. Peace, of Newport News, and was a devoted and loving uncle to Angela H. Williams (Timothy); Shaun C. Brunson (Chiquita); Nekeia J. Williams; Wayne D. Butts; Dr. Morgan C. Williams, Jr. (Brittany); Candice D. Jenerette; Stephen A. Williams; Derek A. Butts (Christina) and the late Leroy Hines, Jr. He was also beloved by his great nieces and nephews, Jacob Williams, Anita R. Williams, Ella J. Williams, Carter C. Brunson, Xola M. Butts, Emery N. Butts, and Quentin N. Butts. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of extended family and dear friends.
Although in this life, another light has been extinguished, a light will always burn brightly in our hearts for our beloved, Larry.
A memorial service for Mr. Brunson will be held at noon on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Walters Temple AME Zion, 4202 Roanoke Avenue, Newport News, Virginia 23607.
It is the desire of the Brunson family that you would keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
The family of Mr. Larry Brunson has entrusted his final care to the staff of C.C. Carter Funeral Home, Inc.
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