Dr. Larry R. Austin, 76, passed from this life Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at his home in Mansfield, Arkansas. Larry was born June 19, 1947 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to Hulon and Kathryn Austin. Hulon passed away December of 1946, before Larry was born. Larry was raised by his mom and step-dad, Rufus Lee Rodgers. Larry graduated as class valedictorian from Woodlawn High School. Following high school, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. He then earned a master’s degree, specialist degree and doctoral degree from the U of A Fayetteville. Education was a life long passion. Larry taught math for five years at Glendale School, he then served as principal and later as superintendent for 17 years. Larry accepted the superintendent position in Mansfield, Arkansas in 1985, where he served for 17 years. He then taught math at Kimmons Junior High for 12 years before retiring. He served in the education profession for 46 years. He then served as mayor of Mansfield for 3 years.
Larry married Linda Vent on October 7, 1966. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He cherished his family, which was reflected in his steadfast love and support. Larry was a member of Liberty Missionary Baptist Church in Greenwood. He served as a Deacon and Sunday School Teacher for over 50 years at Friendship, Cedar Grove and Liberty Missionary Baptist Church.
Larry is survived by his wife, Linda Austin of the home; daughters, Tracy Ballew and husband, Jimmy of Mansfield and Ashley Monks and husband, Todd of McAlester, OK; grandchildren, Lauren White and husband, Ryan of McAlester, OK, Magen Monks and Carter Monks of McAlester, OK; great grandchildren, Laikyn White and Rilyn White of McAlester, OK; sister, Cindy Harris and husband, Don of Benton, AR. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Rupert and Ronnie Austin and sister, Nancy Harris.
Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 26 at Liberty Missionary Baptist Church in Greenwood under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood. Viewing will begin at 9 a.m. on Monday before the service. Burial will be at Friendship Cemetery in Rison, Arkansas on Tuesday, June 27 at 11:00 a.m.
Pallbearers will be Jimmy Ballew, Todd Monks, Carter Monks, Phil Harris, Darren Austin and Ryan White. Honorary pallbearers will be Bro. J.H. Carter, Chip Austin and Bro. Buel Lewallen.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com.
