Mr. Larry S. Dyer, age 77, of Morganton, GA went to be with the Lord Monday morning, August 12, 2024.

Larry Dyer, a devoted serviceman, community leader, and passionate railroad enthusiast, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2024. Born on December 9, 1946, in Minden, Louisiana, Larry was the son of the late Dale Dyer and Virginia Hampton Dyer.

Larry's journey began in West Fannin, where he graduated from West Fannin High School in 1965. His pursuit of higher education led him to Berry College in Rome, Georgia, from which he graduated in 1969. That same year, Larry enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving as an Inventory Management Specialist. His distinguished military career spanned over three decades, including notable deployments with the Georgia Air National Guard. He served with the 118th Tactical Control Flight, contributing to missions in Denmark, Columbia, and the British West Indies.Later, as a member of the 224th Joint Communications Support Squadron, he was deployed to Egypt and Qatar. Larry retired as a Master Sergeant in 2006, having dedicated 33 years to military service.

In 1982, Larry's life took a new and joyous turn when he met Debbie in their Sunday school class at Second Baptist Church. They were married on October 14, 1982, beginning a partnership filled with love and shared commitments.

Larry's commitment to service extended well beyond his military career. In 1978, he discovered his passion for railroading as a volunteer with the Atlanta Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. His involvement was instrumental in the creation of the New Georgia Railroad and the startup of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, where he remained an active crewmember for 18 years.

A lifelong advocate for youth and community, Larry made significant contributions as a leader in the Boy Scouts of America. His roles included Advancement Chairman, Troop Committee Commissioner, Scoutmaster of Troop 263, Troop Bus Driver, and OA Lay-Advisor to Scouts in the Philippines.

Larry's service to his community was further exemplified through his membership in Kiwanis and The American Legion. He actively participated in Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief, assisted veterans through the Disabled American Veterans, and served his local church in various capacities, including offering counting team, trustee, cemetery committee member, and deacon.

His legacy of selfless service, dedication, and passion for railroading will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Janyce Plemmons.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Debbie Weaver Dyer of the home; children, Chris Brown (Deborah) of Greensboro, NC, Dawn Griffith (Brandon) of Nashville, TN, and Dara Dunn (Benjamin) of Vinnings, GA; grandchildren, Joshua Brown, Annalee Brown, Ira Griffith, and Isidor Griffith; brother, Eric Dale Dyer (Teresa) of Jasper, GA; sister, Cindy Kay Dyer Wheeler ( James) of New Jersey; nieces and nephews, Anna Dodge, Dotti Hubbard, David Wheeler, Sara Wheeler, Marcus Dyer, and Jaylyn Dyer; great nieces and nephews, Cody Dodge (Addie), Jake Dodge (Emily), and Hannah Hubbard; many other relatives and dear friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. from the First Baptist Church of Blue Ridge with Dr. Rusty Thomas officiating. Eulogy will be by Fred Cochran. Music will be provided by Pat Young. Military honors will be rendered by the North Georgia Honor Guard. Interment will follow in the Chastain Memorial Park with the following gentlemen serving as pallbearers: Marcus Dyer, David Wheeler, Cody Dodge, Jake Dodge, Joshua Brown, Benjamin Dunn, Brandon Griffith, and Chris Brown. The Deacons of the First Baptist Church of Blue Ridge will serve as honorary pallbearers. The family will visit with friends at the funeral home on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ALS United of Georgia at https://secure.alsgeorgia.org/site/TR?team_id=2931&fr_id=1121&pg=team and Boy Scout Troop 32 in Larry's memory.

May his spirit continue to inspire and his legacy endure through the many lives he touched.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinscobb.com

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Blue Ridge is in charge of these arrangements.