Dr. Jeffery D. Larson, 56, of Murphy passed away Thursday, March 13, 2014 in a Murphy care facility. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, but was raised in Birmingham, Alabama.
Dr. Larson graduated from Mountain Brook High School, Auburn University, and the University of Alabama School of Medicine. He completed his residency at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle.
Dr. Larson and his wife, Celia, moved to Murphy in 1986 to join Peachtree Internal Medicine, where he had the pleasure of working for over 24 years. He was also board certified in internal and geriatric medicine.
Jeff was a member of the Murphy First United Methodist Church. He served in Haiti in the mission field, visiting Hôpital Albert Schweitzer in 1986 and 2006.
He was a gardener, fisherman, photographer, and trumpeter. He enjoyed growing orchids and he competed in marathons. He loved his community and the people and lived a life full of energy. Jeff loved his family greatly.
He was the son of the late Alfred Junior and Verleen Gren Larson. He was also preceded in death by his running buddy and friend, his dog, Ella.
Surviving are his wife, Celia Larson; a daughter, Hannah Larson; a sister, Nancy Larson Dulin and husband, Mark of Davidson, North Carolina; three brothers, Kent Larson and wife, Maria of Boston, Massachusetts, Brian Larson and wife, Suzan of Birmingham, and Rodger Larson and wife, Beth of Chicago, Illinois.
A memorial service was held at 3:00 PM Friday, March 21 at Murphy First United Methodist Church with Rev. Rob Rollins and Harry Hearne officiating. Honorary pallbearers were Brian Mitchell, Terry Jones, Phil Mattox, Tom Detitta, and Jimmy Goodson.
The family received friends from 5-8 Thursday evening, March 20 at the Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Dr. Jeffery D. Larson to the Hôpital Albert Schweitzer Haiti, 2840 Liberty Avenue, Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or The Foundation of Murphy Medical Center - Jeff Larson Scholarship Fund, 3990 E. US 64 Alt., Murphy, NC 28906.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of all arrangements.
I just learned about Jeff's passing. I am proud to be able to refer to him as one of my physicians, and I have warm memories of Jeff and his pleasant and professional manner. I still have in my files one of the write-ups he did when I went to him for my annual physical.
Hopefully God will hold you both in His hands and comfort you in this difficult time.
In sympathy,
Rick Bagley
You are in our thoughts and prayers. He was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. God Bless you both.
Tim & Brenda Meador
I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember when some of us (Ashgrove garland dancers) stayed with you several years ago. You, Jeff, and Hannah were so gracious and made us feel so welcome. What a sweet family! I hope you find comfort in good memories.
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jean Karpen
On behalf of Martins Creek School, I wish to impart our deepest condolences. Dr. Larson was an incredible man who positively touched many lives here in Western North Carolina and abroad. He was a very supportive and involved parent while Hannah attended MCS. We are so sorry for the loss but are thankful for the ways Dr. Larson used his talents and intelligence to benefit others throughout his life, and we are thankful for the comfort found in the Promise of our Lord. John 14:2
God bless you at this time. I know you are both crushed with the loss. I am so sad for you and I will pray for you. I already know that God will bless you with the love and comfort from friends. Jeff had many who loved and admired him and the same is true for you. May God wrap his arms around you and hold you with the peace that only comes from Him.
lisa twiggs