Mr. Larry Kemp Rantz Sr., 84, husband of Margaret F. Rantz, of Withams, passed away Aug. 4, 2021, at his residence.
Born Feb. 25, 1937, in Withams, he was the son of the late Jess “Beanie” W. Rantz and the late Violet Linton Rantz. Larry owned several businesses over the years, with Rantz Properties LLC being the last. He was a successful timber and firewood dealer, working for the Chesapeake Corporation. Larry enjoyed collecting decoys, playing tennis, crocheting, and skiing. He never knew a stranger and would carry a station wagon full of kids to go watch movies. Larry had a zest for life and enjoyed sharing it with those around him.
Other than his wife, Larry is survived by two daughters, Teresa R. Collins, of Withams, and Crystal V. Rantz, of Withams; a son, Larry Kemp Rantz Jr., and wife, Charlene, of Withams; special “son” Nathan Eulo; five grandchildren, Renee C. Rantz, Jeremy S. Rantz, Valynn Rantz Davis, “Billy” Killmon, and Chris Marshall; and great-grandchildren, William Kemp Rantz, Jake Rantz, Jada Marshall, Luke Rantz, Emily Rantz, Taylor Rantz, Ava Rector, and Indiana Judge.
Other than his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Jean Rantz; two brothers, Rickey Kildare Rantz and Archie Rantz; and a sister, Sarah Mae Rantz.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021, at 2 p.m., from Hallwood Baptist Church with the Rev. Danny Shrieves officiating. Interment followed in the Downings Cemetery in Oak Hall.
The family received friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to Hallwood Baptist Church, 27508 Main St., Hallwood, VA 23359.
Arrangements are by the Thornton Funeral Home in Parksley.
To sign the guest book online, visit: www.thorntonfuneralhome.net
