Larry Joe Southard

Larry Joe Southard, 82, of Hillsdale passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, Illinois.

He was born in Montezuma, Indiana on January 23, 1943, to Emmett Southard and Lois (Marshall) Southard who precede Larry in death. Also preceding him is his sister Martha J. Southard and his brothers James and Robert Southard.

Larry served in the United States Army during Vietnam and was a member of American Legion Post #184. He served as a volunteer fire fighter for over 50 years, starting his service with the Hillsdale Fire Department, which later became Helt Fire and Rescue as well as Hilmon. Larry belonged to the Teamsters Union and was a self-employed truck driver as well as belonging to United Auto Works Union working as a mechanic at J.I. Case for 15 years.

Those left behind to remember Larry is his wife Shirley (Simpson) Southard, his sons William J. Southard and Larry J. “L.J.” Southard II; daughters Bonny J. Southard and Belinda J. Southard; brother JB Southard; twenty-one grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service on Tuesday December 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Highland Cemetery in Hillsdale, Indiana with Pastor Keith McIntyre officiating. Military honors will also be performed. Cremation was chosen.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to your favorite charity or not-for-profit in memory or Larry.

Online condolences may be shared at www.fristfuneralhome.com.

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