Larry Douglas Carr

Larry Douglas Carr, age 89, passed away at home on Friday, April 25, 2025. Born on February 11, 1936, Larry was the son of Douglas and Paralea Carr. He grew up with his sister, Marilyn Sue Moore, who preceded him in death. Larry lived a life marked by deep faith, public service, and devotion to his family and community.

He is survived by his wife of more than 62 years, Dorcas Virginia Carr, who lovingly and faithfully cared for him through his recent illnesses. Larry and Dorcas built a strong and beautiful life together, including their daughter, Lara Elizabeth Ramsey, and her husband, Sean Ramsey. Larry was also the proud grandfather of Benjamin Ramsey, his only grandchild, who is graduating this year from Virginia Tech with the same master’s degree in urban and regional planning that Larry earned decades ago. This was a connection that filled Larry with immense pride and joy.

Larry pursued his education with great dedication, attending Clinch Valley Community College (then a two-year school) before earning his bachelor’s degree in economics from East Tennessee State University. He later achieved two master’s degrees, one in economics and one in urban and regional planning.

Larry devoted 43 years of his career to the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission, ultimately serving as its Executive Director of the Cumberland Plateau Company. Through his leadership, he made significant contributions to the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell, Virginia. His efforts helped bring new businesses to the region and played a vital role in the expansion of broadband internet access to rural areas as well as the first PDC GIS program in the region. He also served as an advisor to the Russell County Industrial Development Authority and was a tireless advocate for the growth and prosperity of Southwest Virginia bringing thousands of IT and manufacturing jobs to the four counties.

Larry was a longtime member of the Wise First Church of God, where he taught the adult Sunday school class for 51 years. He also served as a lay minister, often filling in for pastors both at his home church and at others throughout the region. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and his kindness, wisdom, and leadership touched countless lives.

In his younger days, Larry enjoyed practicing karate, playing tennis, and staying active at the gym.

The Carr family would like to extend special thanks to Angie Hurd and Christina Hess for their care and support in recent years, and to hospice for their compassion and assistance.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at the Wise Cemetery 199 Church St. Northwest Wise, Virginia 24293. Those wishing to attend the service is requested to meet at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Larry’s memory by lending a helping hand to your neighbor, supporting your local community, or simply telling someone about the importance of believing in people and places that others might overlook — just as Larry always did.

Expressions of sympathy may be made on the Combs-Hess Funeral and Cremation Service Facebook page and on our website at www.chfunerals.com. Combs-Hess Funeral and Cremation Service, 291 Hwy 71 Fincastle Road, Lebanon, VA 24266, (276) 889-4444, is serving the Carr family.