Larry Leon Linebaugh's Obituary
Larry Linebaugh, age 79, was born on March 30, 1946, in Ottumwa, Iowa, and passed away peacefully just after midnight on January 30, 2026, surrounded by his closest family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby and Everett “Lee” Linebaugh; his sister and brother-in-law, Pat and Ronnie Landtiser; his sister-in-law and brother, Joyce and Everett Linebaugh Jr.; and his son, Larry Linebaugh Jr.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Jo Linebaugh; his son, Jason Linebaugh, and daughter-in-law, Lisa Linebaugh; his grandchildren: Brennan and Cindy Settles, Krystal and Josh Decker, Zack and Hannah Settles, Zach and Emily Linebaugh, and Courtney and Andrew Brinson; and his treasured great-grandchildren: Beau Linebaugh, Austin Decker, Kennedy Brinson, Logan Linebaugh, Casey Settles, Reagan Brinson, Parker Brinson, Reese Linebaugh, and soon-to-be-born Luke Settles.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Known for his warm personality and kind spirit, he truly never met a stranger. Whether with lifelong friends or someone he had just met, he had a way of making people feel welcome and valued.
Above all, Larry showed his love through his presence. He was always there for the moments both big and small - milestones, celebrations, quiet conversations, and everyday life. His family could count on him to show up, offer support, and share in whatever the moment called for.
He was a legendary storyteller with a truly unmatched sense of humor. He loved telling stories from his life, and while you may have heard the same one dozens - if not hundreds - of times, he delivered it each time as if it were brand new and just as funny. His timing was perfect, his punchlines familiar, and somehow, it never got old. Laughter followed him wherever he went.
A lifelong scholar and hard worker, he valued learning, curiosity, and doing things the right way. He earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Amberton University, an accomplishment he was proud of and one that reflected his dedication to education. He carried that same work ethic into his professional life, working for Rockwell and later Alcatel, where he was known as dependable, committed, and respected.
He had a lifelong passion for baseball and proudly served as a Little League umpire for many years, dedicating his time to youth sports and his community. He also enjoyed music, especially Elvis, and found great joy in karaoke. He was devoted to preserving family memories and could often be found behind a video camera, capturing moments that will be cherished for generations.
Larry’s legacy is one of love, kindness, laughter, and unwavering presence. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the lives he touched.
Special Thanks:
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, and medical staff who cared for Larry over the years. Their compassion, dedication, and kindness meant more than words can express and brought comfort to both Larry and his loved ones.
Donations in honor of Larry can be made to the American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association.
What’s your fondest memory of Larry?
What’s a lesson you learned from Larry?
Share a story where Larry's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Larry you’ll never forget.
How did Larry make you smile?

