Larry Bruce McCroskey

Larry Bruce McCroskey, 82, of Albemarle, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, February 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Palestine Community Church, officiated by Rev. Carol Flack and Rev. Keith Walters. Burial will follow in the Palestine Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m., prior to the service at the church. Born February 24, 1943, in Stanly County, Larry was the son of the late Audry and Mary Lee McCroskey. Larry is lovingly survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Elaine McCroskey. He also leaves behind his daughters, Michelle Haywood (Ray) of Mt. Gilead and Heather Blalock (Bret) of Mt. Gilead; his cherished grandchildren, Olivia Grace Haywood (Paris), Marylee Haywood (Justin), Bret Blalock, Jr. (Leanna), and Taylor Kime (Jake); and his treasured great-grandchildren, Leah, Bo, Reed, Eli, Evan, Kaeson, Lyndon, and Geneva. He is also survived by his brother, Herman Tarlton; his sisters, Shirley Stitt and Beverly Story; along with many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Audry Burdette McCroskey, Jr., Grady Lee McCroskey, Wayne Tarlton, and Richard Tarlton; and his sister, Ardyth Lanier McCroskey. Larry lived a life defined by service and dedication. For 52 years, he faithfully served with Stanly Rescue, mentoring countless young rescue technicians and leaving a lasting impact on emergency services in the community. He also served as a firefighter and first responder with local fire departments, retiring from the Badin Fire Department. Larry was deeply proud of his time in the 263rd Communication Squadron of the North Carolina Air National Guard at Badin. Outside of his service, Larry embraced life with enthusiasm. He was an avid water skier who loved boating and spending time on the water. He never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Above all, he loved his family and his community, and his legacy of kindness, leadership, and dedication will live on through those who knew and loved him. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Gentiva Hospice, Dr. Poor, and the many friends who provided care, compassion, and support during Larry’s declining health. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Stanly Rescue (PO Box 994 Albemarle, NC 28002) Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is honorably serving the McCroskey family.

Larry Bruce McCroskey

February 24, 1943 - February 13, 2026