Charles Larry Tewell Sr. (Sept 24, 1947 – Dec 12, 2024) Retired U.S. Air Force Veteran, Beloved Father, Grandfather, and Friend.

Charles Larry Tewell Sr., known to his family and friends as Larry, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, at the age of 77. He was born on September 24, 1947, in Hannibal, Missouri, to Charlie Tewell and Mildred Sandifer Tewell Massey. Larry was a devoted and proud father, grandfather, and friend, whose life was marked by service, love, and dedication to his family and community.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Tewell; stepfather, Sam Massey; and stepmother, Betty Tewell. He is survived by his loving mother, Mildred P. Massey of Quincy, Illinois; his daughter, Becky (Tony) Spurlin; his sons, Larry (Matt) Matthew Tewell and Charles (Chip) Larry Tewell Jr. (Danielle); seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his half-sister, Cindy (Terry) Hammock, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Larry’s legacy is deeply tied to his distinguished service in the United States Air Force. He proudly enlisted in 1966 and served honorably during the Vietnam War. Over the course of his twenty-year military career, Larry made invaluable contributions to his country before retiring in 1986 as a decorated veteran. Following his service, he worked for several companies, including LSI and RTX, and spent time as a truck driver for Witte Bros and Curry Trucking. Later, he enjoyed a second career traveling the country, hauling trailers for his own business.

A graduate of Monroe City R-1 (Class of 1965), Larry attended Holy Rosary Catholic School in Monroe City and remained a lifelong member of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Hannibal. His faith was an important part of his life, and he was dedicated to supporting his church and community.

Larry was known for his kind heart, his love for his family, and his strong bonds with fellow veterans. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at the Garner Funeral Chapel in Monroe City, Missouri. Father Mike Quinn will officiate. A visitation will be held on Monday, December 16, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Garner Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery in Monroe City.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that

Larry Tewell; Veteran, Beloved Father, Grandfather, and Friend.

memorials be made to the VA Home in Mexico, Missouri, or to Holy Family Catholic Church, Hannibal, Missouri, in care of the Garner Funeral Home and Chapel.

Larry’s memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, his love for his family, and his unwavering commitment to his country. May he rest in peace.

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