Final Salute

Larry passed away on October 19, 2026, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on June 12, 1952, in Ocala, Florida, to Cyrus Harold Mitchell and Mary Lou Mitchell. He attended Robert E. Lee High School in Tyler before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy as a Seabee in the Amphibious Construction Battalion.

Following his military service, Larry returned to Texas and spent more than 50 years as a professional truck driver. Known to many by the nickname “Toothpick,” he was respected for his strong work ethic, dedication, and loyalty to the many friendships he built throughout his life.

For his family, the sound of the train horns on his truck often signaled he was arriving home, leaving for another trip, or simply passing by. It became a familiar sound and a lasting memory for those who loved him.

Larry never met a stranger and was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and love of family. If he was teasing you or pulling a prank, it was usually his way of showing affection. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured every opportunity to spend time with those he loved.

Larry had a deep appreciation for history, travel, and the beauty of God’s creation. Whether visiting Yellowstone, Monument Valley, the Grand Tetons, Mount Rushmore, Little Bighorn Battlefield, or countless hidden landmarks along the way, he loved sharing those experiences with the people he loved. He was rarely without a camera or camcorder in hand, documenting family milestones, vacations, and everyday moments that others might have overlooked. He also loved cooking for others and was famous among family and friends for his smoked brisket, holiday meals, homemade peach cobbler, and banana pudding.

For many years, Larry volunteered his time preparing breakfasts at First Christian Church and assisting with Fit Steps for Life. He found great joy in serving others and sharing meals with family, friends, and members of the community.

Larry shared more than 40 years with his beloved wife, Elaine, whom he met while she was working at a local convenience store. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, travel, laughter, and caring for others. Though Elaine passed away in September 2024, their love story remains one of the greatest blessings of his life.

Larry now joins those who went before him, including his wife, Elaine Francis; his parents, Cyrus Harold Mitchell and Mary Lou Mitchell; and his brother, Thomas Frederick Mitchell.

He is survived by his children, Stephanie McLemore Turner, Brandon Mitchell, and Courtney Mitchell; his stepchildren and spouses, Joe Francis (Dawn) and Eddie Francis (Misty); his brother, Randy Mitchell; grandchildren Tiffany Honea, Brice Francis, Aston Francis, Logan Francis, Rachel Turner, Cooper Mitchell, Kiley Richey, Presley Koski and Jacob Turner; great-grandchildren Kayelee McClenny, Kaden Honea, Chanel Francis, Enzo Francis, and Conley Francis; great-great-granddaughter Kimber McClenny and Kacie McClenny; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

A Funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 10:30 a.m. with Dr. Chris Pulliam officiating, at First Christian Church, 4202 S. Broadway Ave., Tyler, TX 75701. Pallbearers will be; Brandon Mitchell, Joe Francis, Eddie Francis, Dale Hedrick, Aston Francis, and Logan Francis. A reception will follow.

Visitation will be one hour prior at First Christian Church.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church, or the Hope Cancer Center, 721 – A Clinic Dr., Tyler, TX 75701