Larry Ray Luman, age 76, passed away at his home in Ransom Canyon on December 7, 2023, surrounded by his wife and sons. Born on June 18, 1947, in Slaton, Texas, he was the eldest son of Anna Bell and NJ Luman.
Larry graduated from Slaton High School in 1965, and shortly after, joined the United States Air Force, serving from 1966 to 1970. During his military service, he was stationed in Germany from 1966 to 1969, where he served as an administrative, finance, and personnel clerk. Larry was honorably discharged in January 1970, after which he attended computer technical training in Houston, Texas.
Upon returning to Slaton, Larry married Joan Claiborne in August of 1971. They spent the next 52 years always together.
In 1972, Larry began a near four-decade career with US Foods (formerly White Swan). Over the next 38 years, he climbed the ranks, starting out as a delivery driver before advancing through various roles as cashier, accounts payable clerk, accounts payable manager, office manager, and VP of Distribution. He ultimately served as Division President for the last ten years of his career. Larry retired in 2010, leaving a legacy of dedication and hard work.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bobby Luman. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan; his two sons, Jeff and his wife Lindsey of Lubbock; and Greg of Lubbock; and his three loving granddaughters, Elizabeth, Piper, and Claire. Larry is also survived by his siblings, Brenda Luman of Ardmore, OK, and Jerry Luman of Pauls Valley, OK.
Larry was a member of the First Baptist Church in Slaton.
After having bought an Airstream trailer on a whim soon after retiring, Larry and Joan began their association with the Texas Plains Airstream Club. Larry contributed in various capacities, hosting numerous rallies as well as serving as the club president. This association opened the door to 12 years of travel, adventure, and friendships as Larry and Joan traveled from coast to coast, from the Gulf of Texas to Canada, and most states in between. In addition to travels within the US, Larry and Joan were fortunate to get to visit their former exchange students in Germany and Columbia. Their plans to celebrate their 52nd anniversary with a trip back to Europe were cut short by Larry's advancing cancer which he bravely battled for the past 8 years.
In addition to traveling, Larry cherished taking care of his granddaughters and attending their activities. His decades in the food business translated to a love of good food, and he could often be found in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes. Larry and Joan could also be seen working in the yard or riding their bikes around Ransom Canyon.
The family suggests memorial gifts to Texas South Plains Honor Flight at https://www.texassouthplainshonorflight.org/ .
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