Mpls - Larry was a North Minneapolis original. He moved to Brooklyn Park, where he stayed for over 4 decades.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louise and Horace Hammick. He is survived by his devoted life partner Denise, his children Vonda and Larry Jr., his brothers John and Wallace, and his sister Lucille.

Larry was known for speaking his mind—blunt, no sugar-coating, always real. He stood up for what mattered. He often defended people who couldn't defend themselves. He had zero tolerance for mocking and discrimination.

He wasn't a flashy romantic. He showed love in quiet ways—sharing his last dollar for food, letting birthdays slide if money was tight. "You're my girl," he'd say, with a shrug that carried a mountain of love.

He was charismatic, loud in music and presence, deeply loyal and protective of those he loved. He made his home with his life partner, Denise for over 40 years—a bond that didn't need a piece of paper to be real. To him, she was his girl, his baby, the one he always came home to. He loved to embarrass her by yelling "hey buns," in the stores. He would laugh when she tripped but always caught her before she fell down.

He was loyal to his friends and generous to those closest to him. He had a thing for soda and sweets, especially huni buns.

He loved R&B; music always booming from his car, windows down. The car? Spotless. Even the tiniest speck of dirt didn't stand a chance.

He found joy in old-school TV, listening to music, watching movies, playing bones and chess. Going for car rides, day trips to nowhere, fishing, flying his drones, playing with his electric cars and wearing all his beautiful jewelry.

He wasn't about punchlines—his humor came from his point of view, the way he told stories, the way he lived out loud. He laughed more in private than in public, but always managed to make people listen and smile. He was a mentor to many, teaching them honesty, tolerance, respect and how to have fun and enjoy life.

All his life he had many friends, people were drawn to him.

Driving over North, people were constantly waving him down or yelling his name. He is truly loved by many.

He wasn't a fan of BoBo their parrot at first, but over 29 years, the bird won him over, becoming a part of their family and his joy.

Through his journey, Larry built a life with Denise that didn't need a label. Like in the movie *As Good As It Gets*, he became the best version of himself for her. And like the song *All My Life*, he didn't spend his whole life searching—he found it and held on.

He was the storm and the calm after. The roar of a lion and the warmth of a quiet, steady heart. Larry leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and loud music. And if you're ever in the grocery store and hear someone yell 'Hey buns!'—that's just Larry, saying hello.

A celebration of life will be held:

January 9, 2025, 11:00 a.m.

True Vine Church

2639 N Thomas Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55411