Larry Poynter

Obituary of Larry Poynter

Senior Master Sergeant Porter “Larry” Poynter passed unexpectedly in his sleep at his home in Puyallup, Washington, on Sunday, March 29, 2020 at the age of 71.

Larry is survived by his wife Iris, sister Ridelle Wilkerson, and five children: Rodney L. Poynter of New Jersey, Michael A. Poynter of California, Crystal N. Poynter of Washington, Tiffany R. Hollington of Washington, and Felicia Poynter of Washington. He is preceded in death by his parents Albert H. Poynter and Estelle Roberts along with Leroy Poynter, his brother.

Larry was born on Thursday, April 22nd, 1948 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Albert and Estelle Poynter. He graduated from Edward W. Bok Technical High School in 1965. Directly after high school, he enlisted into the United States Air Force on December 12, 1965. He is a veteran of both Vietnam and Desert Storm. Throughout his dedicated and faithful service, he earned the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters and the Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Vocational Education from the University of Sothern Illinois in 1991 with Magna Cum Laude honors. After serving 26 honorable years, Larry retired from the United States Air Force on January 1, 1992 at McChord Air Force Base, Tacoma, Washington.

In January of 1992, Larry began working for State Farm Insurance Company as a Claims Adjuster. From there he worked his way through the ranks until he retired as the beloved supervisor of Administrative Services in 2010.

Due to the unusual circumstances of the need to keep social distancing, the family will conduct a private ceremony in memoriam of Larry and his life. Retired Chief Master Sergeant Samuel A. Mack will officiate the ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made to the American Legion and the National Association of Black Veterans in Larry’s honor.

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A Memorial Tree was planted for Larry
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Edwards Memorial | University Place