James E Lary

2/7/36 -- 12/28/2016

James “Jim” Lary passed away quietly on December 28th. Born on February 7, 1936 to Harold and Mary Lary in Oklahoma City, OK and big brother (Bubba) to Ketha Lary Verzani, all who preceded him in death.

After pursing a college football career, he decided to follow his dreams of aviation and became an officer in the Marine Corps as a pilot of both helicopters and fixed wing and VSTOL fighter jets. He attended flight school in Pensacola FL and was a member of the elite Archie Angels HUS helicopters and 3 O1B aircraft of Marine Medium f Helicopter Squadron–HMM 362 led by Lt Col Archie Clapp the first Marine units to deploy to Vietnam, He completed 2 tours of Vietnam and was considered a hero for receiving many commendations including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Silver Star.

He married Charlanne Wilson (who preceded him in death in 2004) in 1959 and they had 3 daughters, Kimberly Bender, Kathryn Pierson and Kristin Lary.

He was a very proud Marine and some other noteworthy accomplishments of his career were: appointed an alternate pilot for an Apollo recovery team; served as Executive Officer onboard the USS Iwo Jima out of Norfolk, VA, Executive Officer of VMA 231 and Commanding Officer of VMAT 203 Harrier Training Squadron in Cherry Point, NC and Camp Lejeune, NC.

After his military retirement he worked for 20+ years at Beechcraft Aircraft (becoming Raytheon later) as a corporate pilot and Program Manager of Military Contracts in Wichita, Kansas. It was there, he married Marvis Goosetree and was married for 14 years.

Jim was a man of huge heart and grace. He was all about his simple upbringing in the Midwest; family; Marine Corps career and legacy, and devotion to his puppies and love of animals.

He is survived by his beloved daughters mentioned above, son-in-law, David Bender; 7 grandchildren; Brittany and Justin Brown; Daniel and Sarah Bender; Marcelle, Connor and Abigail Pierson; 1 Niece Jan Pennington and 2 nephews Jeffrey (who preceded him in death 2016) and Joshua

In lieu of flowers we ask you remember your loved ones, especially those who served and consider ASPCA and Wounded Warriors Project.

Arrangements for a full military honors service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery with details to be disclosed when finalized.