Larry Michael Stokes, was born on a sunny summer day, July 30, 1955, in Columbia, SC. His journey on earth came to a peaceful close on May 22, 2026, in Camden, South Carolina. His life and legacy will be celebrated and remembered on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Powers Funeral Home, 832 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff, South Carolina, 29078 with burial to follow in Quaker Cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.          

Larry was a man of many talents, and his hands were the tools that carried him through a lifetime of hard work. He spent his career as a welder, pipe fitter, and pressman, running machinery at a printing company with the same steady skill he brought to every job. Strong, capable, and endlessly hardworking, Larry took pride in what he could build and fix.

Music was his greatest joy. A self‑taught guitarist, he played with a natural ease and a genuine love for the sound of a good instrument. His collection of guitars — each one chosen, cared for, and played often — along with his vast library of albums in his cherished music room, reflected a lifelong passion for music in all its forms.

Larry was deeply devoted to his family. He and Joyce shared forty years together, building a life grounded in loyalty, humor, and unwavering support. From the moment he joined their lives, he embraced Jo Jo and Chip as his own children, forming bonds that grew stronger with every passing year.

He will be profoundly missed by all who loved him, especially Joyce, Jo Jo, and Chip, who will forever carry his strength, kindness, and love in their hearts. 

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Davis Stokes; children, Jo Miller of Camden and Chip Howle (Kevin Bramlette) of Columbia; stepmother Fran Stokes (who he called Mom for 43 years); brothers, Donnie Stokes (Deborah) and Scotty McNeill (Sonya); 3 nieces, 2 nephews and many cousins. He also leaves behind his extended family - James Forrest, Roger Forrest and Karen Vinson.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Edwin McDonald Stokes and Peggy Carroll Stokes.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Children Hospital of Greenville, S.C.