Lawrence C. Royce

Chief Master Sergeant Lawrence C. Royce joined his wife Thelma in heaven on July 15, 2012.

Lawrence (Larry) was born on March 6, 1920, in the family farmhouse near Conway, Michigan, to George A. Royce and Anna Meyer Royce. Larry was the youngest of four sons, Frank, Rudy and Russell Royce. His parents and brothers preceded him in death.

Larry grew up in various small farming towns around Lansing, Michigan. His family farmed and also owned the town grocery store. After graduating from High School in 1939, Larry joined the Army Air Corps where he pursued his life's passion in aircraft mechanics. It was during his assignment at Dale Mabry, Tallahassee, that he met and married the love of his life, Thelma McCoy Royce. They traveled the world along with their two sons Charles and David Royce. Larry served in Occupied Japan during the Korean War. Larry and family were stationed in Tyndall AFB, Panama City, FL, Moody AFB, Valdosta, GA, Nouasseur AFB, Morocco, Wheathersfield AFB, England, Randolph AFB, San Antonio, TX, Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, Patrick AFB, Satellite Beach, FL)and retired at McCoy AFB, Orlando, FL, in 1972.

Larry and Thelma retired to Tallahassee to live on Thelma's family pioneer farm in West Leon County. Larry spent his retirement pursing his second passion, cabinetry making. Larry loved his family dearly and was loved dearly by all.

His dear wife, Thelma preceded him in death in 2001 and his oldest son, Charles followed in 2002.

He is survived by his son, David Royce and his dutiful daughter-in-law, Judith; his grandchildren, Kimberly Johnston (Aaron Brown) of Carson City, NV., Suzie Lusich (Dr. Peter L. Lusich IV) of Carson City, NV., and Samuel (Sam) Royce of Tallahassee; his three great-grandchildren, Alexis Lequerica, Reed Lequerica and Peter L. Lusich V all of Carson City, NV.

A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 21, 2012, at 11:00 am at Culley's MeadowWood Riggins Road Chapel. A catered reception will be held at the funeral home immediately following the service. Casual dress is requested by the family. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army and/or Second Harvest Food Bank. The family may receive online condolences at www.culleysmeadowwood

Arrangements are under the direction of Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home in Tallahassee, Florida.