Larry Joe King

Larry Joe King, 80, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Kansas City Hospice House, surrounded by the love of his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW Post 5675 in Odessa, MO, at 4:00p.m., on Saturday, February 28, 2026, to share a meal, stories, laughter, and memories in true Larry fashion. Memorials are suggested to Toni Skelton. Memories and condolences may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.

Larry was born on October 5, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Murray and Helen (Barker) King. He graduated from Paseo High School and went on to further his education before proudly serving in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He carried deep pride in his service and the brothers he served alongside. Larry was a hardworking man who believed in doing things the right way. He spent many years working side-by-side with his father at King’s Auto Service as a mechanic, a job that suited his steady hands and practical mind. He later retired from Lyons Diecasting in Buckner, Missouri. On July 8, 1982, Larry married Carol Diane Jenkins in Nashville, Tennessee. Though they later divorced, they remained close friends throughout the years—a reflection of Larry’s loyal heart and enduring kindness. He was a Life Member and past Treasurer of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5675 and was also active in the American Legion. The V.F.W. wasn’t just an organization to Larry—it was a second family. He valued the fellowship, the shared stories, and the opportunity to serve his fellow veterans. Larry truly lived for time spent with family and friends. He loved trips to the Lake of the Ozarks where you could often find him boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the peace of the water. He was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs, cheering them on through every season. He enjoyed reading the Missouri Conservation magazine and had a special fascination with all animals and wildlife. He could spend hours watching them, always eager to learn something new. Above all else, Larry’s greatest joy was his family. sharing stories afterward, those moments meant everything to him. His witty humor and stubborn personality are what drew everyone close to him.

Larry is survived by his loving daughter, Toni Skelton of Prairie Village, Kansas; his two treasured grandchildren, Madison Skelton and Bronson Skelton; and many friends who will forever remember his steady presence, warm heart, and quiet strength.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his former wife & lifelong friend.

Larry will be remembered as a proud veteran, a loyal friend, a devoted father and grandfather, and a man who found happiness in simple pleasures and time well spent with those he loved most.