Larry James Spelts, Sr., 78, passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at Palmetto Patriots Home in Gaffney, South Carolina. Larry spent his final months making friends and memories with veterans from all walks of life and all branches of service.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 2:00 pm in the veteran’s section of Grandview Memorial Cemetery 620 South Cherry Road, Rock Hill where he will be laid to rest next to his father and mother. Bishop Matthew Douglas Burris will be officiating the service.
Larry was the oldest of the five sons born to James Thomas Spelts and Sarah Chloe Vicars Spelts. Along with his parents, he was proceeded in death by his brother, Daniel “Bruce” Spelts. Those left to cherish his memory are his brothers, David Thomas Spelts and wife, Paula, of Bolivia, NC, Randy Joe Spelts of North Augusta, SC, Michael Wayne Spelts and wife, Cristle, of Rock Hill, SC. Larry is also survived by two sons, Larry Jr., Christopher, and one daughter, Sheree.
Larry proudly served his country in the US Army. He was patriotic and avidly loved America for all she stands for. He believed in and supported the second amendment’s right to bear arms. Larry was of the Baptist faith and was pro-life. He loved to travel and photograph all the places he visited. Larry enjoyed golfing, watching golf and talking about golf. He also looked forward to spending time with friends and family and watching Clemson football. Larry ended each day with a bowl of ice cream. In addition, he was a lifetime member of the Rock Hill Masonic Lodge #111 AFM since 1972. Professionally, he worked as a Pipe Engineer for many years until he chose to retire near the coast in South Port, North Carolina. Larry moved to his hometown of Rock Hill in early 2021 due to his health deteriorating from Scleroderma/Crest Disease and Dementia. He received loving care in the home of and on behalf of his brother, Mike, who he loving referred to as “Brother,” and sister-in-law, Cristle, until March 2023 when he moved to a full-time care facility specifically for veterans. While Larry lost the vast majority of his ability to speak, he never forgot one word “Brother.”
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Tunnels 2 Towers.ORG or Rock Hill Masonic Lodge #111, 130 S Elizabeth Ln, Rock Hill, SC 29730.
Condolences to the Mr. Spelts family may be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net.