Larry Lee McGaughy

We have had the privilege to know and enjoy the company of a man with uncommon integrity and strength. One who was loyal to his family and friends, and always quick to rally to the cause when help was needed; yet, always ready to take occasion to laughter and humor.

Larry Lee McGaughy was born December 1, 1938, To Donald C. McGaughy and Laurageane (Cricket) Channel McGaughy in Olympia WA.  Larry Lee McGaughy Passed away October 8th, 2020, in Prosser WA at the age of 81. He was the eldest of three children born to Don and Cricket, including his younger brother Denny and his younger sister Linda.

Larry attended Lacey Grade School, and North Thurston High school, near Olympia, where he met and became acquainted with a girl named Darlene Gillis, who would become his lifelong companion. After graduating from high school, Larry moved to Prosser WA where he began work at the Hanford Area. Larry returned to Olympia in 1960 to retrieve his would be bride, Darlene Gillis, and the two were married making their home in Prosser. In the course of time they had two children: Michael Sean, and Michelle Lynn. The Larry McGaughy family enjoyed one another in work and play; being active with family and friends, school sports, hunting and fishing. While working and enjoying life, Larry and Darlene with their growing children maintained their small ranch with some cattle, horses, and pack animals; however as time passed and responsibilities lessened, the home place became an excellent place to enjoy their retirement years.

Larry’s Natural born physical abilities were recognized very early in life. At Lacey grade school when he was only in the 5th grade, he was asked to suit-up and workout with the 7th and 8th grade varsity basketball team. He then played first string the remaining three years. In high school, Larry proceeded to be an outstanding athlete in baseball, football, and basketball, receiving awards too numerous to list. His senior year he broke a finger while playing baseball and couldn’t wear a mitt; so, he accepted the track couch’s invitation to participate with the track team.  In the process, he set a new broad-jumping State-record and was a continual 1st place winner in all the sprinting competitions. Of course, this ability made him an exceptional broken-field running back in football. Larry was visited by collage scouts and was presented with numerous scholarship opportunities. However, he chose to go straight to work in construction at the Hanford Area. In time, Larry became a crane operator, distinguishing himself through reliability and hard work.

Larry was preceded in death by his father and mother, Donald and Laurgeane (Cricket) McGaughy; and his Daughter, Michelle Lynn Wolff.  Larry is survived by his loving wife, Darlene of 60 years; a son, Michael Sean and his wife Renee, of Kennewick; Grandchildren, Amanda Lynn Wolff of Oklahoma City, OK, Brandy Wilson and her husband, Gideon Wilson of Brewster WA, Wade McGaughy of Kennewick WA; And two great grandchildren, Nevelyn Wilson and Finely Wilson; a brother, Denny McGaughy and his wife Audrey of Elma WA, and a sister, Linda Geane McGaughy of Elma WA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Larry McGaughy was a tough and exacting man, but his love ran deep. He absolutely adored Sean, and Lynn, Amanda and Brandy; and couldn’t speak enough about Wade, Nevelyn, and little Finely. His loyalty and love of family was evident. Some of his last conversations were of sweet memories: Deer hunts, elk hunts, and setting around the campfire, coffee cups in hand and telling yarns of former days; mom and dad and the wonderful aunts and uncles we were blessed with. 

Graveside service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at the Grandview Cemetery. Those wishing to sign Larry’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com  Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

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