It is with profound sadness that the family of Larry W. Sumpter Sr., 77, announces that he left this world bound for heaven on October 17, 2025. Larry’s loving wife of 58 years was by his side as he took his final leave just as she has done the entirety of their beautiful and rare love story.
They met in their early teens and once together, they stayed together. Growing up together, building a family, raising that family, and dreamt of enjoying their golden years together. Sadly, that part did not last long enough.
Larry was truly a jack of all trades, but what set him apart, however, was that he mastered them all as well. He used his talents to take care of his family, but also whenever called on by anyone else in need.
He profoundly loved his family and he ensured throughout the years that he showed his family what they all meant to him. He could place a smile on their faces in minutes. He was first to offer some of the best hugs known. There was noting that he wouldn’t do for his family. He loved the Lord and for much of his life he shared the Gospel to all who would listen. He had a unique ability to shine in any situation. It was that same light that drew people to him. He made room for everyone that loved and needed him. For as much as he loved; his family loved him just as much. His passing came way to soon and the pain of his absence now will never subside; but neither will all the memories of him that are held so dear by so many. He also was a lifelong fan of the Washington Redskins and he tried to make every new addition to the family, fans of the Redskins as well.
He is survived by, his loving wife, Earline Sumpter; his son and daughter-in-law, Larry W. and Lisa Sumpter Jr.; his daughter and son-in-law, Joseph and Faith Kalista IV; his grandchildren, Mariah Simon and her husband Jon Simon; Joshua Sumpter, Gabriel Sumpter, and Matthew Kalista; his sister, Rosemary Underwood; his two brothers-in-law, John Sparrow Sr. and Wayne Sparrow and his wife Peggy Sparrow; and his three great grandchildren, Landon, Waylon, and Graycie Mae Simon. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews; as well as a great many friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Gladys Sumpter; a brother, Samuel Edmond “Eddie” Sumpter; two sisters, Marie Roberts and Della Fortney; and his greatest loss, his granddaughter Casey Rose Kalista.
The world will never see another like him. He is and will remain so dearly missed. But his loved ones believe that Larry will be leaning on the gates of heaven with a sly smile, saying to the ladies, “how you doing;” and to the fellows, “beat ya.”
The family has decided to defer Larry’s memorial to a future date. In the meantime, the family would love to hear as many memories of Larry as they can get and as such they ask anyone with a story to tell, to go to the Cremation Society of Virginia Memorial Obituary page of Larry’s and share your memories.
Furthermore, in lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the International Rett Foundation in honor of Larry’s beloved granddaughter Casey Rose Kalista.