Larry Eugene Reeder, 88, passed away peacefully in the early morning of October 15, 2025, in Columbus, North Carolina.

Born on September 22, 1937, in Topeka, Kansas, to Homer and Helen Reeder, Larry was the second of five children and the eldest son. As he grew toward adulthood, his sharp intellect, quick wit, and energy propelled him beyond his modest origins toward new experiences and endeavors that would enable him to realize the potential he sensed within himself.

That ambition led him east to Harvard College, where his sensitivity to the beauty and persuasive power of both language and music brought him into meaningful collaboration and community. While gaining distinction and friendship on the debate team, he also found enduring camaraderie—and an outlet for humor and showmanship—in a group of music-making classmates who became known as The Raunch Hands. After college, his talents led him to fulfilling work at the intersection of finance and technology, ultimately grounding a long and successful career in venture capital.

Together with his wife, Miriam Ganem, Larry raised three sons—Adam, Jason, and Allan—each of whom continues to be shaped by his intellectual curiosity, drive to excel, and surprisingly playful artistic inclinations.

Complicated, and not, Larry carried more within him than he often allowed others to see. To the steadfast who knew him best, however, his capacities were inspiring. These included a particular warmth and attentiveness toward people who felt they didn’t quite “fit in,” offering them understanding, encouragement, and belonging.

Larry remained lovingly connected and committed to his siblings throughout his life. Two of them, Pam and Tom, survive him and returned his devotion unfailingly to the end.

His sons will remember Saturdays spent fishing beside him on the banks of Merrimack River; summer reunions with The Raunch Hands and their families; his fascination with history and deep interest in politics; the whimsical, inventive nicknames he gave each of them—Stigisorian Pepapa, Ahmed Whata Adeesh, and Deloge Foxcroft—and his unwavering belief in who they were and who they could become.

The family is deeply grateful for the kindness of the staff, caregivers, and nurses in assisted living at Tryon Estates, and for the love and support of Larry’s closest friends.

An online guest register is available at mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com

McFarland Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Tryon, North Carolina