Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

September 27, 2026

It is with hearts of sorrow that we announce the death of Larry James Pryor, who passed away Sunday, September 27, 2026, at the age of 85 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Larry was born in Mecklenburg County on September 8, 1941, as the only child of James Albert Pryor and Macy Pearl Hollar. Larry graduated from Belmont Abbey College with a Bachelor of Arts in 1966 and began work at Lance, Inc. as a Purchasing Agent in 1967.

Larry had a long and accomplished career at Lance, Inc. eventually serving as the Assistant Vice President/Director of Purchasing (1980-1995). During his career, he completed the Executive Program at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill in 1981. He served as President of the Peanut Butter and Nut Processors Association (1983-1985) and as the Chairman of the National Peanut Council (1988-1989). He represented Lance, Inc. in Washington, DC on agricultural concerns, served on Secretary of Agriculture, Richard Lyng’s, Agricultural Review Committee, and worked with Senator John Glenn to successfully change U.S. import regulations. Larry was also influential in introducing international snack foods to American consumers, including Mentos and Chupa Chups.

Larry married Nancy in 1985, and together they joined their families, creating a family bound not only by marriage, but by love and shared experiences. Larry and Nancy made their home in the Charlotte Cotswold area until 2021, when they moved into the Aldersgate community. Larry was deeply committed to his community and to serving others. He and Nancy became members of Providence United Methodist Church in 1985, where Larry remained a faithful member of the Wesley Men’s Sunday School Class. Larry gave his time and talents to the Methodist Disaster Relief Team, where he went on trips to rebuild homes and communities affected by natural disasters. For many years, Larry also volunteered for the Board of Elections and served as a judge for Precinct 7 on Election Days.

Above all, Larry was a blessing to all who knew him. He was a pillar of strength for his family and friends both in times of need and in times of great joy, always offering his love unconditionally. He was generous, dependable and embodied a depth of character felt by anyone with the pleasure of knowing him. He was a loyal friend, a charitable neighbor, and always honored his word. He upheld true Christian values and was steadfast in his faith, which was evident in the way he served, encouraged, and supported others with humility and grace. He never sought praise, never wavered in determination, and always met others with patience, kindness, and respect.

He was friendly, easy-going, practical and grounded. He was a true-blue Chapel Hill basketball fan. An avid vegetable gardener. A skilled woodworker. A 10k runner. An endless source of wisdom and advice. He was a remarkable role model whose quiet strength, enduring faith, and generous spirit will continue to inspire all of those who loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Seals Pryor. He was a devoted father to four children: Jim Pryor (Tracy), Randy Pryor (Karyn), Susan Pearson Dry (Jerry), and Kimberly Fennell. A devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren: Reid Fennell Cook (Jason), Chad Fennell (Meg), Connor Pryor, Carolyn Dry, David Dry, Rylie Pryor, Brady Pryor, Sydney Pryor, and Bryce Pryor; and two great-grandchildren: Noelle Cook and Emmett Cook.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Providence United Methodist Church. Reverend Steve Autrey will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Resident Assistance Fund at Aldersgate.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.