Lawrence "Larry" Ray Penwell

Lawrence “Larry” Harry Ray Penwell, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away on September 23, 2026, in Dayton, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on July 7, 1940, in Dayton, and throughout his life he carried the strength, steadiness, and devotion that would come to define him in the hearts of those who knew him best.

Larry was strong and hardworking, a man devoted to his family and one who led them with love. He worked as a salesperson, bringing that same dependable spirit to his career. Beyond his work, he loved reading, finding both enjoyment and comfort in the written word. Among the memories his family will hold especially close are the Christmas seasons he treasured so deeply. Year after year, one of the family’s most cherished traditions was hearing Larry read Twas the Night Before Christmas with his grandchildren, a simple and beautiful ritual that became part of the fabric of their lives.

On October 25, 1958, he married the love of his life, beginning a partnership that remained central to his story. That enduring bond was the foundation of the family he loved so deeply and guided with care.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Rose Penwell. He also leaves behind their children, Deborah Coates, Kimberly (John) McKittrick, Larry (Alex) Penwell, and Misty (Craig) Miller, who were part of the family life he built with Rose over the years. His love also lives on in his grandchildren, Angela, Crystal, Amber, Ashley, Brittany, and Seth, each of whom shared in the warmth of his presence and the traditions he made memorable. He is also survived by his brother, Larry "Stubby" Penwell; 16 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren. In the lives of his family, his example of love, strength, and dedication will remain a lasting gift.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hazel Carnes and Lawrence Penwell, and by his brother, Dwight Penwell.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, North Dayton, 4104 Needmore Rd, Dayton, OH 45424. A funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Larry will be remembered for the love he gave, the family he cherished, and the quiet, enduring traditions that made ordinary moments feel special. His memory will continue to be carried in the stories told, the pages read, and the Christmases shared by those who loved him most.