Larry Dean Ripa, age 60, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Wilmington, NC on Saturday, May 13, 2017.

He was born in Wilmington, NC on January 4, 1957 to the late Lawrence and Maggie Lee Godwin Ripa.

Dean was a world-renowned herpetologist, writer, artist, and musician, who sang with the Tommy Dorsey orchestra. He studied art in Europe and traveled the world studying reptiles before returning to Wilmington where he owned and ran the Cape Fear Serpentarium.

He is survived by his son; sister, Terri Hunnicutt (Steve); niece, Carly Bussmann; nephew, Noah Hunnicutt; as well as many friends and the supporting staff of the Cape Fear Serpentarium.

A memorial service will be held 3PM Sunday June 11, 2017 at Cape Fear Christian Church; 811 N College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28405.

You are welcome to visit with the family from 5-7PM Sunday June 11, 2017 at the Cape Fear Serpentarium; 20 Orange St, Wilmington, NC 28401.

Thank you for your friendship and continued support of the Cape Fear Serpentarium

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Share a Memory" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wilmington.