Lawrence "Larry" W. Marshall

Lawrence "Larry" W. Marshall, a dedicated rancher, educator, and beloved community member, passed away on Saturday December 20, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by his family in Thayer, Kansas.

Larry was born on January 5, 1950, in Girard, Kansas, the son of Charles Edward Marshall and Betty Marie (Jarvis) Marshall. Larry's life was a testament to his deep-rooted commitment to agriculture, education, and his community.

On August 12, 1972, in Fredonia Kansas he was united in marriage to Debra Ward and they later divorced. He was later united in marriage in Chanute, Kansas, on February 7, 1998, to Patty Goins and she preceded him in death October 8, 2015. He married Lorrie Timmons on April 28, 2018, at the Fredonia Livestock Sale Barn where he spent an abundance of his time as an auctioneer for many years.

Larry graduated from Girard High School in 1968 and continued his education at Kansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture Education in 1972, followed by a Master's Degree in Adult and Educational Education. During his time at university, he was involved in the ROTC program, fostering his leadership skills that would later serve him well in various capacities.

His career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions as a rancher and as a real estate agent and auctioneer beginning in 1973, owning Larry Marshall Auction and Realty for more than 50 years. Larry held a prominent role as a Vo-Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor at Fredonia High School from 1972 to 1984, where he inspired countless students with his passion for agriculture. He was known for his engaging personality and kindness, never knowing a stranger and always willing to help others without any expectation of return.

Larry was particularly proud of his accomplishments in the community, notably serving as the auctioneer for the baked sale, and announcer of the Kids Rodeo during Thayer's homecoming festivities for over 25 years. His involvement with the Wilson County Fair Association serving as President for many years, further exemplified his dedication to fostering community spirit and supporting local events. He was a member of the Fredonia Rotary Club, and was a Paul Harris Fellow, Mayor of Fredonia for 10 years, Volunteer Firefighter for more than 10 years. He was a lifetime FFA member, and a member of the National and local Real Estate Association, longtime member of the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce, Fredonia Arts Council, past member of the First United Methodist Church of Fredonia and Thayer Christian Church. He supported the Fredonia Yellowjackets, Thayer Flyers, FFA and 4-H Clubs in the area, Thayer Grand Lodge #144 and Sons of the American Legion.

In his personal life, Larry shared a loving home with his wife, Lorrie. He is survived by children Justin (Tiffany) Marshall of Edmond, Oklahoma, Scott (Carissa) Marshall of Emporia, Kansas, Crystal (Jason) Widemon of Gilmer, Texas, Cami (Thomas) Corwin of Thayer, Kansas, Jordan (Britni) Stewart of Fredonia, Kansas, and Lindsay (Jason) Forrester of Fredonia, Kansas. He cherished the joy of being a papa, leaving behind 23 grandchildren and one great-grandson. Three brothers, Steve Marshall and Don Marshall both of Pittsburg, Kansas and twin brother Jerry (Peggy) Marshall of Girard, Kansas and sister Marilynn (Denny) Limpus of Harrisonville, Missouri along with many nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Edward Marshall and Betty Marie (Jarvis) Marshall, his second wife Patty (Goins) Marshall, as well as his sister-in-law, Kay Marshall, and sister-in-law, Debbie Marshall.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Larry's life with visitation at the First Christian Church in Fredonia, Kansas, on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM. Funeral services will be held at the church on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 11 AM, followed by a burial at Thayer Cemetery. The church is located at 303 North 7th Street, Fredonia, Kansas, 66736.

Memorial remembrances are suggested to the Larry Marshall Memorial Scholarship Fund, and they may be left or mailed to Wickham Family Funeral Home.

Larry's legacy will continue through the lives he touched and the love he shared. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Services are under the guidance and personal care of Wickham Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 510 North 7th, Fredonia, Kansas 66736.