Larry James Milton, 82, of Greenville, Texas, passed away on October 27, 2026, at Legends Rehab. A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the chapel of Coker-Mathews Funeral Home with Bro. Justin Milton and Bro. Marc Milton officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Wolfe City. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. until service time.
Larry was born November 27, 1943, in Wolfe City, Texas, to Johnnie Lee and Billie Louise Yarbrough Milton. He was a proud veteran serving in the Marines. Larry married Linda Brignon on July 6, 1968 in Wolfe City, Texas and worked until his retirement for L-3. He was of the Baptist faith.
Larry was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was defined by dedication, integrity, service, and love for those around him.
Larry honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his military service, he was stationed at Camp Pendleton and spent two years aboard the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga. He also had the honor of serving as a driver for a general. His years in the military reflected his commitment to duty, discipline, and country—values that continued to guide him throughout his life.
Larry’s service to his country was honored once again on October 31–November 1, 2025, when he was selected to participate in Honor Flight DFW Mission 61, a special journey recognizing the men and women who served our nation. Among those honored were veterans of the Korean War and veterans of the Vietnam War. For Larry, this journey was a meaningful opportunity to be recognized alongside fellow veterans who shared a bond forged through service and sacrifice.
In true Larry fashion, his determination and grit were on full display. After suffering a fall that resulted in a broken hip, Larry made an incredible recovery and, just two weeks after being released, boarded a plane to Washington, D.C., to participate in Honor Flight DFW Mission 61. His willingness to make that journey despite such a significant injury was living proof of just how tough Larry truly was. While visiting the marine memorial he got out of his wheelchair and stood on his own with other marines in front of the US Marine Corps War Memorial.
His strength, resilience, and determined spirit were evident throughout his life, and this remarkable trip stands as a testament to both his enduring determination and the pride he carried in having served his country.
Beyond his military service, Larry was an outstanding athlete with a deep love for sports and competition. He had a particular passion for golf, a game that brought him enjoyment throughout his life where he achieved 3 hole in one’s.
His appreciation for athletics extended beyond playing the game, as he dedicated 17 years to officiating football. Through those years on the field, he became part of the many moments, teams, and traditions that make sports such a meaningful part of a community. His love of the game and his commitment to being involved reflected a lifelong appreciation for sportsmanship, camaraderie, and the lessons learned through competition.
Larry also believed in giving back to the community he called home. He served several terms on the Planning and Zoning Committee, contributing his time and experience to help guide the community’s growth and future. Whether serving his country, participating in local government, or sharing his love of sports, Larry demonstrated a willingness to step up, serve, and make a difference.
Above all, Larry will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the memories he created, the service he gave, and the love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who loved him.
Larry is survived by his wife, Linda Milton; son, Lance Milton and wife, Caná; daughters, Jennifer Smith, Julie Sickels; brother, Marc Milton and wife, Karen; grandchildren, Harper Milton, Silas Milton, Luke Weise, Jamison Smith, Sunny Sickels; great-grandson, Gabriel; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, William Everett Milton and Joe Milton.
Pallbearers will be Mike Rackley, John Foote, James Smith, Lance Banks, Luke Weise and Jamison Smith.