Larry Thomas Padgett, age 72, of Watha died Friday, February 29, 2008 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born March 3, 1935 in Pender County and was the son of the late Gilbert R. and Catherine Teachey Padgett. He was predeceased by his sister, Bobbie Marshburn.

Mr. Padgett served his country honorably in the US Air Force. He was a devoted husband and loving daddy and brother who was always kind and gentle. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Surviving are his loving wife of fifty years, Geraldine "Gerry" Miller Padgett of the home; son, Gerald Padgett of Willard; daughter, Kimberly Padgett of Watha; sisters, Sylvia Pierce (James "Monk") and Sherry Bond (Harvey), all of Watha; brothers, Donald Padgett (Alma) of Watha and Ricky Padgett of Pittsfield, MA; brother-in-law, Arnold Marshburn of Watha; several nieces and nephews; his special canine companion, "Coca" and all his pet squirrels.

Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Monday at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with the Reverend Gary Avery and the Reverend Macon Wood officiating.

Burial will follow in Watha United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Casketbearers will be Randy Anderson, Glenn Anderson, Gary Pierce, Donnie Wheeler, Dennis Teachey and Mike Garriss.

Honorary casketbearers will be Everette Murray, Willis Watson, James "Monk" Pierce, Harvey Bond, Pearlie Wilson and Robert Rich.

The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:30 pm Sunday at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home, Wallace.