Larry Abel

08/13/1943 - 01/14/2024

Larry Gene Abel was born in Orange County, Indiana, to Jean Bruce and Ruby Madeline Abel on August 13, 1943. He lived his early years in French Lick and graduated from Springs Valley High School in 1961.

He moved to Louisville, Kentucky, after graduation and became a meat cutter and later a store manager for Kroger. He was transferred to Bedford, Indiana, in 1972 and later moved to the Fayetteville area where he became a gifted horse trainer and breeder. He traveled to many shows from Michigan to Texas and all points in between, along the way achieving championship awards such as The North American in Louisville, KY. In Fayetteville, Larry also became the “Fayetteville Store” owner in 1975, becoming a core familiar face in the small town’s community. After selling the store, Larry continued his passion for horse training and breeding by teaching his son, daughter, and grandchildren the ways of 4-H. Every year at Lawrence County’s 4-H Horse & Pony show, Larry and his wife presented a beautiful Mare & Foal award in memory of their daughter Julie.

Later in life, he was district manager for Moorman Manufacturing Company and custodian for North Lawrence School Corporation. Larry continued to impact lives in this custodial position by becoming a familiar, comforting face to students. So much so, that sometimes learning-impaired elementary students would request to speak with him to help them calm down from emotional outbursts.

Larry was an avid fan and volunteer for Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps traveling many miles to help with meals and boosting morale for the members. You could always count on him for a pat on the back and a funny joke. You could also catch a joke and a smile from Larry at nearly all home Bedford North Lawrence basketball games since 2012. He and his wife have been long- time supporters of both our Lady Stars and the boys. In his elder years, one of Larry’s favorite hobbies was embracing the beauty of Lawrence County’s countryside by going on long drives.

When all is said and done, Larry is remembered as the embodiment of what it means to be a Hoosier; he was a hard worker who followed his passions, protected and loved his family, all while making those around him smile.

He is survived by his wife Beverly, a son Brad (Deanna), Bedford, Indiana, grandchildren Niles of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Amanda of Richmond, Virginia, Madison of Bloomington, Indiana, and step-grandchildren Hunter and Tylor Maddox and Marissa Embree. He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Julie.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.