Larry James Naillon

Larry James Naillon returned to his heavenly home April 7, 2026, at the age of 89. Larry was born on July 10, 1936, to Roy Taylor and Genevieve Day Naillon in Camas, Washington. In his youth, as the oldest of ten children, he was responsible for a very large garden, performed chores, and chopped wood for the family's wood burning stove- laying the foundation of his lifelong work ethic and dedication. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his grandpa. On one occasion his grandpa accidentally shot him, just a grazing-but an event he did not divulge for fear of an end to the hunting trips. He graduated from Washougal High School in 1954.

Demonstrating the beginnings of his lifelong dedication to the Lord and spreading His gospel, Larry desired to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Since at the time missionary service did not begin until the age of 20, he moved to Provo and attended BYU. He lived on a poultry farm and developed an interest in raising chickens and prepared for his mission by taking all the religion classes he could- perhaps beginning his lifelong love of the words of the prophets, modern and scriptural. At age 20, he was called to the East Central States Mission, and part of the time served as mission secretary.

After his mission he was at the top of the draft list, so he enlisted in the Army National Guard. He completed 6 months active duty at Fort Bliss Texas and then served 7 years in the National Guard. While serving in the National Guard he returned to BYU to complete his degree. At BYU he was called as a stake missionary; he and his companion DeLoy Vernon taught students the gospel, many from foreign countries and many joined the church.

While at a Thanksgiving dance in 1960, he met Judith Parry, the love of his life. After Larry graduated in May 1962, Judy and Larry were sealed in the Manti Temple on August 21st. Dupont offered Larry a job, so the happy couple moved to Delaware to begin their almost 64-year journey together. They were delighted to have daughter Kimberly in 1964 and son Larry Dean 4 years later in New Jersey while Larry was working for Continental Can.

He worked for several companies including American Can as a manufacturing engineer. While working for American Can he earned an MBA from Memphis State University.

Larry was a devoted husband and showed great love and respect for Judy. Larry was a loving and present father in the lives of his children, attending many sporting events and activities and encouraging them to do their best and work hard.

In his mid-fifties, Larry pivoted his career and went to work for Schneider National Trucking Company. He drove a truck in all 48 continental states and became a training engineer, training new drivers. He worked diligently to achieve the Schneider Trucking Company's Million-Mile award for a million miles of safe driving with no accidents. Larry’s grandchildren have many fond memories of finding orange trucks on the freeway and looking for Grandpa.

Larry was known for his patience and persistence and had a remarkable ability to figure out almost anything he set his mind to. He was incredibly bright and knowledgeable.

Larry could often be found watching the news, reading, taking care of the yard, or taking care of the house. He could fix almost anything. You never heard Larry complain and he had a calm and steady presence. The grandchildren enjoyed his sense of humor and remember well his genuine and infectious laugh that shook his shoulders.

After retiring at 68, Larry traveled with Judy and enjoyed time with his family. At one of these family events Larry hiked at his insistence, at the age of 80, up Ensign Peak in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was thrilled to attend the marriages of 2 granddaughters. His greatest joys came from talking and learning about and observing his posterity.

Larry lived a long full life as a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many callings including Young Men President, counselor in the bishopric, Bishop, stake financial clerk, high councilor and as a dedicated home teacher. His greatest sermon was taught by his quiet example.

Larry leaves behind for a time his wife, Judy; children, Kimberly Wade and Dean Naillon (Mindy); six grandchildren, Elizabeth Wade, Sarah (Ryan) Isaacson, Maddie (Will) Anderson, Katherine Wade, Grant Naillon and Matthew Wade; six great-grandchildren, Charlie Anderson, Theo Anderson, Liam Isaacson, Lenora Anderson, Bennett Anderson and Wyatt Isaacson; and siblings, Audrey Iverson, Charlotte Freeland, Warren Naillon, Evelyn Bonney, Edna Stanton, Elvira Olinger, and Wes Naillon. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Lyle Naillon and Wayne Naillon and his grandson, James Wade.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 10 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel, 13112 South 700 East, Draper, Utah. Friends may visit with family on Tuesday from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the missionary fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.