Born on August 29, 1944, in Montgomery City, Missouri, Larry Thomas was the son of Monte and Elizabeth (Bledsole) Thomas. At the age of two, he moved with his family to Des Moines, Iowa, where he later attended Tech High School. There, he earned recognition as an All-American football player and graduated with the Class of 1962. Following his education, Larry began his career at Ford Implement, where he was involved in the construction of tractors. On July 1, 1964, he married the love of his life, Linda Kay Johnson. Together, they raised their family in Des Moines and shared a devoted marriage spanning 61 years. Later in his career, Larry obtained his insurance license and worked as an insurance agent with KDI Insurance Company. Larry was an active and faithful member of Burns United Methodist Church in Des Moines. He deeply valued time spent with his family and enjoyed engaging in various social activities. Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Linda K. Thomas; his children, Larry (Kelly) Thomas Jr., Gary Thomas, and Jeffrey (Tonia) Thomas; his grandchildren Jason, Jounique, Marquis, Branden, Aaron, Caleb, K'linda, Jordan, Christopher, Cordell, and Whitney; twelve great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and a loving circle of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will continue to cherish his legacy. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Joe R. Thomas, Betty Miller, Lois Lewis, and Mary Margaret Broadus. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family.