Larry Dale Crim, 85, of LaHarpe, Illinois, passed away at 8:42 p.m. Sunday, December 7, 2025 at his home.
Larry was born November 22, 1940 in Kirksville, Missouri, the son of George and Juanita (Cline) Crim. On May 24, 1964 he married Joyce Emel in Memphis. She survives.
Larry was raised on a farm near Brashear, Missouri, where he attended a one room school until 7th grade. He graduated from Brashear High School in 1958. Following high school, he received his Bachelors Degree from Northeast Missouri State University. Larry began his teaching career in Kahoka, Missouri, before moving to Wyaconda, Missouri, where he continued his teaching career, as well as served as Principal. At the same time, he returned to Northeast Missouri State University to earn his Masters Degree. Larry relocated to California, for a short time, where he taught, before returning to Missouri to farm for a year. He was principal for two years at the Campbell County High School in Gillette, Wyoming before returning, once again, to Missouri to serve as Principal of the Memphis, Missouri High School. While in Memphis, he once again attended Northeast Missouri State University, where he received his Education Specialist Degree. In 1978, he moved to LaHarpe, to serve as Superintendent for 6 years. Lastly, Larry was Superintendent of the Union School District in Biggsville, Illinois, until his retirement.
Larry was an avid coin collector, enjoyed drag racing and loved his Buick cars.
Survivors include his wife, Joyce, two children: Brandon (Monica) Crim of LaHarpe, Christina (Christian) Funk of Morristown, New Jersey; four grandchildren: Jared Crim, Victoria (Lance) Crim, Kayla Crim and Jadrien (Dylan) VanFleet; six great-grandchildren; one sister: Charlene (Steve) White of Lone Jack, Missouri; one nephew Kyle (Audrey) White; four nieces: Debbie (Barney) Wellborn, Meagan (Ted) Caugher, Lauren (Tyler) Maniez and Caitlin (Brian) Horner.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister: Evelyn Wellborn.
Friends may call after 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 11, 2025 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe, where the family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.
The funeral service for Mr. Crim will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 12, 2025 at the LaHarpe Union Church with Rev. Rick Goettsche officiating. Cremation will be accorded following the service.
A memorial fund has been established to the Union Church.