Dr. Larry R. Denius
In Memoriam: Dr. Larry R. Denius (May 12, 1938 – December 31, 2023)
Dr. Larry R. Denius, a beloved patriarch, physician, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully in his home on December 31st, 2023, with his loving wife, Nora (Josie), of 64 years by his side. His courageous battle against cancer over the past 14 years was a true testament to his unwavering strength, which was fueled by his deep faith in Jesus Christ and the constant support of his cherished family, local church, and friends.
On May 12, 1938, in Quaker City, Ohio, Larry Denius was born the eldest son of the late Rev. Richard F. and Marjorie Rickey Denius. The family relocated numerous times during his formative years and spent a significant amount of time in Chetek, Wisconsin. It was there that he cultivated a lifelong love for the outdoors. He graduated from Chetek High School and continued higher education at Aurora College in Aurora, IL, where he earned a B.S. in Biology and Chemistry. It was during this time that he met and fell deeply in love with Nora Nicely (Josie), marrying her before completing college. He then went on to earn his medical degree at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Following his studies, Larry completed an internship at Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He then served in the U.S. Air Force as a flight medical officer and flight surgeon assigned to the 96th Bomber Squad 71st Air Refueling Squadron, achieving the rank of captain. His military service was marked by dedication and service to his country.
Afterward, Larry and Josie settled in Hot Springs, Virginia, where he established a private medical practice specializing as a family physician. His commitment to healthcare extended beyond family medicine, to roles such as an emergency department doctor at Bath Community Hospital, a Virginia Medical Examiner, and the medical director and resort physician for The Homestead Hotel. He practiced medicine during a time when a physician’s range of skills and services was much broader than what is required of physicians today. As a country doctor, he delivered babies, made house calls, and treated patients with serious injuries such as snake bites, dislocated extremities, broken bones, chainsaw and gunshot wounds. He had to stitch up his children more than once.
Larry’s impact reached beyond his medical practice and helped form the foundation of his community. He served on the board at Advent Christian Village in Dowling Park, Florida, and was an active member of the Lone Star Advent Christian Church. His dedication to family and community was embodied by his roles as a trustee, deacon, and choir member. Larry’s commitment to the community extended to the Air Force Ready Reserve, as well as his duties on the board of Camp ACCOVAC in Millboro, and the countless hours spent laboring as part of the Christian ministry of the camp.
A devoted family man, Larry, and Josie raised five children, leaving behind an enduring legacy of love, faith, and community involvement. Larry’s passion and contagious adoration for the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and watching the Green Bay Packers brought joy to countless family gatherings.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife Josie, two brothers, Blaine (Anita) of Winterville, NC, and Roger (Angela) of Lenoir, NC, and one sister, LaVonne Brown (Steve) of Lee, Massachusetts. He leaves behind five children: Cheryl Vess (Steve), Rhonda Ervin, Sandra Denius Pichette, Lori Ledford (Merle), and John Denius (Lisha). Larry was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. In addition, he leaves behind cherished family friend Dallas Reynolds, beloved brother-in-law C.J. Nicely, and many special nephews and nieces. All of whom have been a blessing to him and Josie throughout the years. The family expresses gratitude to Jim Bay with Intrepid USA Hospice for his caring and compassionate care during Larry’s final weeks.
Larry’s humility, kindness, and dedication to his community were evident in his professional and personal life. He was as much at ease making morning hospital rounds as he was telling stories around the skinning pole of Rough Mountain Hunt Club. He touched countless lives,
leaving an indelible mark that will be cherished and remembered for generations. One of his favorite scripture passages was “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. “ Philippians 1:6
Family visitation will take place on Friday, January 5th, from 6-8 PM at the Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, VA. The following day, January 6th, a celebration of Larry’s life will take place also at Nicely Funeral Home beginning at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Camp Accovac in memory of Dr. Larry Denius, a faithful servant of the Lord. Donations can be sent to: Camp Accovac, C.J. Nicely, Treasurer, 625 Frontier Way, Fincastle, VA 24090 (https://www.google.com/maps/search/625+Frontier+Way,+Fincastle,+VA+24090?entry=gmail&source=g).
Active Pallbearers include Isaac Vess, Garret Vess, Tyler Ervin, Michael Pichette, Jackson Denius, Troy Nicely, Forrest Nicely, and Dallas Reynolds.
May Dr. Larry R. Denius rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of the Lord he served so faithfully throughout his remarkable life.
To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com
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