Larry Meredith

Larry Meredith, 79, of Apopka, Florida, passed away on December 10, 2025, surrounded by his family and Pastor. He was born on August 21, 1946, in Painesville, Ohio, where his lifelong love of music, sports, and bringing people together first began.

Larry attended Painesville Elementary School and was active from a young age. In 1958, he moved with his family to Florida, settling on Fairbanks Avenue in Orlando. An athlete at heart, Larry played in a junior league with the Orioles and later excelled as a competitive swimmer at the national level. He attended Edgewater High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force.

As a teenager and young adult, Larry worked as a lifeguard at Lake Fairview. It is where he spent countless hours swimming, fishing, and skiing. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and loved being on the water as much as life would allow.

In 1992, Larry married the love of his life, Shirley, and together they built a life rooted in love, partnership, and generosity. Their relationship was filled with dancing, singing, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Larry and Shirley were known for their open hearts and open doors, often welcoming anyone in need of a place to stay and making them feel like family. Shirley was Larry’s constant companion, confidant, and greatest love.

Music was one of Larry’s greatest joys. He loved the music of Chicago, Boston, and Journey, and his favorite song, Footloose, reflected his energetic and fun-loving spirit. Larry was a gifted musician/drummer who played in several bands over the years, including Rocking Renegades, Rick Martin’s Backyard Society, Caught in the Act, The Martin Air Force Base Band, American Pie, Second Guessin and Caribbean Chillers. Music was not just a hobby for Larry; it was a way he connected with people and created lasting memories.

Larry deeply loved serving his country, a commitment that continued throughout his life. Through his work with the VFW, he tirelessly supported fellow veterans, including helping to raise funds by organizing and hosting dinner shows featuring tribute bands which was his way of blending his passion for music with his dedication to service. Professionally, Larry was a respected mechanic in the Orlando area for many years before transitioning into a career as an insurance agent. In every role, he was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and sincere desire to help others however he could.

He also found great joy in the kitchen. He had a deep love of seafood, enjoyed cooking for others, and took pride in sharing recipes with family and friends. Whether he was preparing a meal, telling a well-timed joke, or launching into one of his many stories, Larry had a gift for making people feel welcome, comfortable, and entertained.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; his children, Dustin (Amy) Meredith, and Ashley (Justin) Zembower. He also leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Karissa (Branden), Brennen, Devon (Abigail), Christian, Jameson, Kylie, Dalton (Elizabeth), Kenzie, Parker, Malachi, Logan, Kendall (Alex), Luke (Taylor), Seth, Van, and Brittany (Mark). He was a proud great-grandfather to Rowan, Riley, Everett, and Sutton.

Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn; his father, Paul; his brother, Daniel; and his stepson, Donald.

Larry Meredith will be remembered for his generous heart, his love of music and storytelling, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the deep devotion he had to his wife, family and friends. His laughter, kindness, and larger than life presence will be deeply missed and never forgotten.