Larry Ray Waters, 77, of Cary, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 22, 2025, at WakeMed Raleigh. Born on September 23, 1948, in Wake County, NC, he was the beloved son of the late Earl Glenn Waters and Lydia Jane Davis Waters. He was preceded in death by his brother, Glenn Waters Jr.

Larry met Diane, the love of his life, as high school sweethearts during a teenage square dance. From the moment they met at age 16, he knew she was his special sparkle and soulmate. Together, they built a lifetime of memories filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.

A retired Computer Programmer Analyst with the State of North Carolina, Larry was a devoted family man who always put the needs of his loved ones before his own. He was an avid golfer who ran golf tournaments for many years and was a well-known figure in the golf community. Larry's passions included being a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan, a lover of the New York Yankees, cooking and grilling for family and friends, and entertaining with warmth and generosity.

Larry cherished the outdoors, spending weekends water skiing at the lake and enjoying time at the beach. His culinary talents shone especially on New Year's Day when he prepared traditional southern dishes like black-eyed peas, meatloaf, and pork roast. He was also a lifelong card player, a legacy passed down from his grandmother who taught him poker at age six.

A life member of the VFW Auxiliary, Larry had a green thumb and a love for flowers, often tending to their garden and bringing flowers to his wife every Friday after a long week. Known as a strong, caring, and loving man, Larry never knew a stranger and was deeply loved by his family and community alike.

His final words to his wife on the morning he passed were a tender declaration of love—a testament to the beautiful bond they shared.

Larry's life was defined by his deep love and devotion to his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Linda Diane Jeffreys Waters; their daughter Kim W. Gold and her lifelong companion Craig Anderson of Wilson, NC; their son Larry Ray Waters, Jr. and his lifelong companion Emily Perry of Wilmington, NC; his brother Ken Waters and his wife Kathy of Raleigh, NC; and special friend Ondra Tew of Eastover, NC. He is also survived by a niece, nephew, extended family, and a host of friends. Larry's cherished poodles, Riley Ray and Pepper Lewis, were also dear to his heart.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 11:45 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. at Montlawn Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Don Ross officiating. Burial will follow at Montlawn Memorial Park.

Larry Ray Waters leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.