Final Salute

Lawrence (Larry) Sherman Hawk, 96, passed away peacefully at home on May 2, 2026, in Lenoir City, Tennessee. Born on March 14, 1930, in Akron, New York, he lived a remarkable life defined by ingenuity, dedication, and love for his family and community. To his dismay, we will not attempt to list all of his awards!

After graduating from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville on the G.I. Bill, Larry embarked on a distinguished career as a civil engineer. He worked with Union Carbide and Martin Marietta in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, contributing to numerous groundbreaking projects for the lunar landing. He held several patents through his work there and is a registered Professional Engineer. His inventive spirit shone brightly when he designed the direct manual braille slate after a close friend lost his sight later in life and needed to learn braille. This innovative creation earned him the prestigious Rolex Award, a nomination for Bush’s “1000 Points of Light” and exemplified his commitment to improving the lives of others through his design and compassion.

Larry proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Navy Seabees. His time in service instilled in him a strong sense of duty and resilience that carried through every aspect of his life.

A man of deep faith, Larry was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. His belief in God guided him throughout his life and was a cornerstone of his character. He shared this faith with those around him through his actions and unwavering kindness. He was a member of the Lions club for more than 60 years in both Karns community and Lenoir City and received the Melvin Jones Fellow. He devoted much of his time and money in support of the Boys & Girls Club knowing the importance of their work with young adults.

An inventor at heart and an accomplished carpenter, he found joy in creating and sharing his woodworking projects with friends and family. His generosity extended beyond material creations; he was known for his creative nature and mind that inspired all who knew him.

Larry is blessed to have found love twice and is survived by his cherished wife of 8 years, Betty Edwards Hawk; daughters Nancy Carpenter (and husband Don) and Debra Warr; son David Hawk (and wife Kerri); Betty’s children Doug Edwards (and wife Jan) and Cindy Cook (and husband Tommy). Six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by Helen McFall Hawk, his beloved wife of 61 years, his sister Lois Moseley, and his brother Richard Hawk, DDS.

We are extremely grateful for our special friends Stacy Evans, Becky and Brad Buttermore and our church family at Central United Methodist Church. Our thanks also for the loving care from the nurses and physical therapists at Nuclear Care Partners, especially home health nurse Jeff Holland, who also became a best friend.

Larry’s legacy is one of love, innovation, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by those who had the privilege of knowing him. May his life continue to inspire all who remember him.

The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, May 8th at Central United Methodist Church. Memorial services will follow at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Central United Methodist Church 301 Hickory Creek Road, Lenoir City, 37771, or the Boys and Girls Club of Loudon County 201 N. B Street, Lenoir City 37771, bgctnv.org.