WILMINGTON — Larry Creed Ingram, born on May 25, 1948, in Laurinburg, NC, passed on November 22, 2023, in Wilmington, NC. Larry’s age at the time of his passing was 75 years old.
Larry’s professional journey was marked by his commitment to serving others. He began as a Probation-Parole Officer in Hoke County, NC, for three years before transitioning into the role of Human Resource Manager at JP Stevens in Wagram. He continued his career in the same position at Dayco Products in Fayetteville until his retirement. Larry’s work ethic and compassion left a lasting impact on those he encountered.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Larry had a deep appreciation for nature. Every first Saturday in December, he would eagerly make his way to Morehead City, NC, to attend the Duck Decoy Festival at Harker’s Island. Larry was a passionate collector of hand-carved ducks and duck calls, cherishing the artistry and craftsmanship behind them. He also found joy in exploring country roads, seeking out wild turkeys, birds, alligators, or any extraordinary wildlife that crossed his path.
Larry was a member of the Fayetteville Gun Club, where he not only honed his target shooting skills but also formed meaningful friendships. Later on, he cherished the opportunity to reminisce about his military experiences with his fellow club members. Additionally, Larry attended breakfast meetings in Aberdeen every other month, reconnecting with his high school classmates from the 1966 Laurinburg High School graduation class. This tradition held a special place in his heart, even after he relocated to Winnabow, continuing until his health no longer allowed him to travel.
Family was everything to Larry. He took immense pride in watching his sons play sports and later reveled in attending his grandsons’ sporting events. His grandsons brought immeasurable joy to his life, and he delighted in spending time with them, often spoiling them with Oreo cookies during their visits.
Larry’s educational journey led him to graduate from Laurinburg High School and Pembroke State University with a BA in Sociology. Following his studies, he served in the US Army from 1968 to 1971, including a year in Vietnam. His service to his country exemplified his selflessness and dedication.
Larry is now reunited with his parents, Mary and Johnnie Ingram, as well as his sisters, Peggy Ingram Tardif and Betty Ingram Archer, and niece Debbie Tardif.
He leaves behind a loving and devoted family, including his wife of 54 years, Wanda Boyette Ingram, and his sons Jeffrey Creed Ingram (Valerie) and James Patrick Ingram (Sarah), all residing in Wilmington, NC. Larry’s legacy lives on through his four grandsons, Walker, Wyatt, Nolan, and Emmett Ingram. He is also survived by his brothers, Lynn Ingram (Sandy) and Glynn Ingram (Ginnie), along with a niece, four nephews, three great-nieces, and three great-nephews and one great-great nephew..
In December 2014, Larry moved to Winnabow, NC, to be closer to his family, especially his beloved grandkids. He was an active member of Pine Valley Methodist Church in Wilmington, NC, where he volunteered in the yard ministry and participated in the Family Promise program for as long as his health allowed. Larry’s faith and dedication to serving others shone through in his involvement with the church community.
Above all, Larry cherished his family. His wife, sons, daughter-in-laws, and grandsons held an irreplaceable place in his heart. He also treasured his extended family, coming together for annual reunions following the passing of his parents in 1990. Each year, they gathered in Greenville, SC, after Christmas and met during the summer near Atlanta to reconnect and create lasting memories.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 11 a.m. from the sanctuary of the Pine Valley Methodist Church. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at the Hillside Memorial Cemetery in Laurinburg, NC at 3:30 p.m.
The family suggests donations be made to Pine Valley Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28403 or Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401 in Larry’s name.
Larry Creed Ingram will be remembered as a man who lived life with purpose, finding joy in the simple pleasures and cherishing the relationships he held dear. His legacy of love, dedication, and service will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him.
