Larry Jay McCarson

October 19, 1939 – September 16, 2026

Larry Jay McCarson, 86, passed away on September 16, 2026 at his home in Crestwood, Kentucky. He was born on October 19, 1939, in Seneca, South Carolina to the late Harvey Andrew and Martha Bell Madden McCarson.

On March 17, 1961, Larry married the love of his life, Sandra “Sandy” Hutchinson McCarson.

He attended North Carolina State University before leaving college to serve his country in the United States Navy. Larry was accepted into the Navy’s pilot training program at Naval Air Station Pensacola, but a medical issue prevented him from completing his training. Following his honorable discharge, Larry returned to NC State, where he earned his degree in mechanical engineering with an aerospace option.

Following graduation, Larry went to work for NASA in Huntsville, Alabama, where he contributed to the Saturn V rocket program. He later worked for GE Aerospace in Pennsylvania before moving with his family to the Louisville area. He spent 30 years with GE Appliance, specializing in refrigeration engineering, and retired in 1999.

Larry was an adventurer at heart, and some of his family’s best memories were made camping and boating on Dale Hollow Lake. He also enjoyed snow skiing and simply being outdoors. He believed life was meant to be experienced, and he especially enjoyed experiencing it alongside the people he loved.

Larry was also funny, curious, intelligent, and always ready for a good discussion. He enjoyed talking about the issues of the day and wasn’t afraid to ask questions, offer an opinion, or stir up a spirited conversation. Those who knew Larry knew that a discussion with him could be thoughtful, challenging, humorous—and sometimes all three.

Above all, Larry loved the Lord. His Christian faith was a defining part of his life. He was a longtime member of Pewee Valley Presbyterian Church, where he served as the founder and teacher of the Thoughtful Christian Sunday School class for many years. He was also an active member of the Lions Club in Crestwood. His faith and service shaped the way he approached life, family, and the world around him.

Larry leaves behind a family who will remember far more than his accomplishments. They will remember his humor and his curiosity; the conversations and debates; the camping trips, lake weekends, days on the water, and ski trips; and, most importantly, the pride he had in the home he designed and built 51 years ago. He and Sandy hosted countless family gatherings, history making parties with their amazing community of friends, and fostered an open door policy where all were welcomed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy McCarson and sister-in-law, Pat McCarson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Sandy; three children, Sherry(Randy) Fields, Kim(Matt) Stone, Michael(Maria) McCarson; 10 grandchildren, Calvin(Emily) Fields, Carson(Claire)Fields , Emma(Andrew) King, Isaac(Morgan)Fields, Kelsey Miller, Sylvie Miller, Danielle(Adam) Woeste, Lucas McCarson, Abbey Stone, Logan Stone; 8 1/2 great-grandchildren; and sister, Annette Price, and many nieces and nephews.

During his last months, he was lovingly cared for by our incredible “A” Team: Reli, Melissa, Tiffanie, Ladonna and Victoria. The connections they made and comfort they provided were above and beyond. We are forever grateful.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and his influence will continue to shape the family he loved so dearly.

Visitation will be October 4th, 2026, from 1-3 pm and a Celebration of Life service at 3:30 pm in Family Life Center at Pewee Valley Presbyterian Church.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Pewee Valley Presbyterian Church or Hosparus.

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