Larry’s story began on Oakley Street in Chicago, where he met Lawana Thomas, the love of his life, as neighbors. Together, they built a life, moving their young family to Jefferson City, Missouri, and eventually settling in Emporia, Kansas. In Emporia, Larry dedicated himself to his work at Iowa Beef Processing (IBP) from 1989 to 2004, first as a Quality Control Inspector and later as a Production Supervisor.

After his time at IBP, Larry felt a deep calling to guide and support young people. He wanted to offer the kind of mentorship he wished he'd had growing up, hoping to spare others from the challenges he faced. This desire led him to mentor with the Rites of Passage Program at the Emporia Library and to co-found the "Be The Change" Program at Emporia Middle and High Schools. Larry was a natural mentor, providing guidance and a parental presence to countless students. He also served as an advocate and counselor at Crosswinds, supporting those seeking mental wellness.

Larry's spiritual journey was a cornerstone of his life. He came to know Christ as his Lord and Savior at the age of 16 when baptized at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. Larry became a member of St. James Missionary Baptist Church in Emporia and quickly became an integral part of the church family. He was the first to establish a Jail Ministry at the Lyon County Jail, served as Sunday School Superintendent, Youth Ministry Director, Trustee, and choir member, and ultimately answered his call to ministry, earning two master’s degrees and three bachelor’s degrees in religion and theology. He became the Senior Pastor of St. James, where his humble spirit inspired the church motto, "God Gets the Glory."

Outside of his ministry, Larry enjoyed the simple things in life: keeping his car spotless, traveling with Lawana, cherishing moments with his grandchildren, and having heartfelt late-night and early-morning talks with his daughters. He was also known for his love of napping, a trait he shared with his family. Larry had a passion for evangelism, always ready to share the importance of a relationship with Christ. He was deeply connected to his community, serving on the boards of the Health Department and the Emporia High School Site Council, and as the chaplain for the Emporia Fire Department.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Lawana; his daughters, Lashawna Williams of Atlanta, Georgia, and Theresa Williams (Tish) of Topeka, Kansas; his brothers, Earl Williams (Kathy) of Topeka, Kansas, Waldell Williams of Dekalb, Illinois, Isaac Williams III of Wellsville, Kansas and his sister, Jennifer Williams of Dekalb, Illinois; his grandchildren, Jayden, Yana, and Eli; and a host of aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Isaac Williams, Jr.; his mother, Wonnia Williams; and his cherished daughter, Krishawn "Krissy" Hunter.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Emporia First United Methodist Church, 823 Merchant St., Emporia, KS, with Masonic Ceremony at 9:30 a.m., visitation at 10:00 a.m. and services at 11:00 a.m. with burial following at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for the Williams’ Grandchildren’s fund may be made to Lawana Williams, in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, PO box 175, Emporia, KS 66801.