The Spurlin Family is sad to announce the passing of a loved one.

Larry Spurlin was born in Terrell County, Georgia, on March 10, 1960, to the late Sister Rosie Lee Givens Harris and Deacon Jake Warren. He was a beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. At times, his physical limitations slowed his stride; however, nothing could keep him from the protective and loving arms of God. This was most evident on Friday, January 1, 2021, when Larry slipped his hand into the master’s hand and transitioned to his eternal home with family standing close by his side. Larry confessed Christ at an early age and joined Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church where he was groomed to be respectful, loyal, and hard-working, but most of all, a servant leader. He honed his gift of helping others and was always selfless in doing so. His devotion to family and friends and countless acts of kindness made it easy for those around him to love him unconditionally. Larry graduated from Dougherty High School in 1978. He excelled as an all-around athlete. He was on the track team and played basketball and football. Larry showed that he was a Mighty Trojan by representing the school in State Competition as an elite shot putter. He also led his 1977-1978 basketball team, as a forward, to a State Runner-Up finish. Although Larry received many accolades for basketball and track, he truly shined in football, and was recognized as one of the best linebackers in the nation. Larry was noted as a 2-Time All American, All-State athlete, and received the Headhunter Award for his tackling precision. Football fanatics recall a particular game when the football field was nearly flooded. Although rain was pouring, Larry did not find it difficult to expose his opponent’s weaknesses. He had so many hard tackles the school renovated the playing facility shortly afterwards because players nearly drowned under the pile ups. His accuracy and intensity would lead him to receive a football scholarship to the University of Wisconsin. While attending the University of Wisconsin, Larry acquired even more accolades. He was an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention, a Badger Blaster Award recipient for the hardest hitter on the team, a Jay Seiler Memorial Award recipient, and even appeared in eight games his freshman year. Larry graduated from the University of Wisconsin 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a minor in Business. After graduation, Larry was employed by United Parcel Service, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and Ayers Corporation, as a sheet metal fabricator. Realizing that he had always been good at working with his hands, he decided to start his own lawn care service. He operated his lawn care service until his retirement. Larry was a devoted classmate, family man, and friend. He always had time to listen and never hesitated to give of his time, talents, and treasures. Larry was a true confidant to many, and his love and kindness will live on through those that miss him the most. Larry is preceded in death by his parents: Rosie Harris and Deacon Jake Warren Sr.; brother: Charlie R. Givens, Sr. (Rosie); and sisters: Reverend Annie Doris Spurlin, Betty Wiggins, and Katrinka Spurlin. Larry Spurlin leaves to cherish his memories his children: Trakeythia de’Lissia Nycole Spurlin and Brandon Montez Gamble; grandson: Marcus Dewayne Heath, Jr.; sisters: Aldene (Harvey) Lanier, Barbara Lynn (Charlie) Rouse, Prophetess Clara Costello, Mildred McGill, and Bessie Warren; brothers: Elijah Spurlin, Walter (Sarah) Spurlin, Willie (Elizabeth) Warren, Joe (Virginia) Warren, Jr., and Jake Warren; aunts: Artie (Thomas) Watson and Mary Davis; best friend: Rosayln Spurlin; and a host of cousins that were raised as his brothers and sisters, nieces nephews, and loving friends.