Larry Thomas Williams

Larry Thomas Williams, age 82, passed peacefully with his family by his side.

Born in Fort Madison, Iowa to Thomas and Elizabeth Williams, Larry grew up with a love of horses, rodeo, and the cowboy life. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Roger.

In his younger years, Larry was in the Navy Reserves and worked as a plant foreman at George Evans, Moline before following his true passion—horses. Having grown up around rodeo grounds, he not only rode bulls but even stepped in as a rodeo clown when needed. His devotion to harness racing became a lifelong career, spending six to seven days a week training and driving at East Moline Downs, Aurora Downs, and later as a successful trainer at Sportsman’s, Hawthorne, and Maywood Park in Chicago. Among the many horses he trained, his favorites included El Skipper, who set a state record, and Beans Tonight—who, much like Larry himself, was known for being stubborn and full of spirit.

After retiring from horse racing, Larry worked as a foreman for The Fence Store for 18 years before moving to Arizona, then to Texas, where he especially loved living. Following the passing of his wife, he returned to Illinois to be closer to family and to reconnect with his soulmate, Joan.

Larry lived a full, hardworking life. A cowboy through and through, he was rarely seen without his boots and hat. Though he carried himself with toughness, his love for family ran deep. He cherished his children, grandchildren, and was especially proud to welcome the next generation of great-grandchildren. He also held a lifelong love for the Professional Bull Riders (PBR), which he followed faithfully both in person and on television.

Larry is survived by his children Sean (Dana) Williams of Elgin, Kelli (Doug) Lord of Naperville, and Kristen Brackett of Montgomery. He leaves behind nine grandchildren: Richard Williams, Jaden (Natalie) Williams, Thomas (Katie) Lord, Johnathan (Jodi) Lord, Amber (Adam) Kruza, Chris (Kelly) Brackett, Alyssa (Kyle) Slosar, Tom Brackett, and Brandon Brackett. He was blessed with nine great-grandchildren who were the light of his life: Kennedy, Isaiah, Regan, and Jace Lord; Link Kruza; Dallas and Wrenna Brackett; and Benjamin and Elanore Slosar. Nephew: Mark Williams and Neice: Shelly

Larry also remained close to Pat Nania, his former wife and lifelong friend, with whom he shared many meaningful years and enduring respect.

Larry’s legacy is one of grit, love, and cowboy spirit. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL