Dr. Larry Aaron's Obituary
Dr. Larry Aaron, a beloved pastor, devoted family man, esteemed educator, and compassionate counselor, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at the age of 81 in Springdale, Arkansas. His legacy of faith, service, and love leaves an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was born February 18, 1943, in Fayetteville, Arkansas to Elry and Jewel (Beard) Aaron. Larry Aaron's life was profoundly shaped by his faith from an early age. At ten years old, he embraced Christianity and was baptized, setting the course for a life dedicated to serving God and others. By the age of sixteen, he demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, serving as superintendent of the Sunday school at Antioch Baptist Church of Cassville, Missouri.
Larry's commitment to his faith led him to pursue ministry, and he was ordained at Bethany Baptist Church. On June 9, 1962, he married the love of his life, Sandra Sue Hart, with whom he shared a beautiful journey of 61 years. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Melinda Gibson, and Robin Coggins, whom he cherished dearly, along with his three beloved grandchildren: Shane Gibson, Corrie Selig, and Savanna Coggins.
Education was a cornerstone of Larry's life, and he pursued it with diligence and excellence. He graduated from Cassville High School before earning his Bachelor of Science in Education (with honors) and master's degree from the University of Arkansas. Later, he attained his Ph.D. from the University of North Texas, further enriching his knowledge and understanding.
For twenty-seven years, Larry served as a pastor in communities across Missouri, Arkansas, and Texas, touching countless lives with his wisdom and compassion. His dedication extended beyond the pulpit as he spent twenty-five years as a marriage, family, and child therapist, offering guidance and support to those in need. As an adjunct professor at Dallas Baptist University for a decade, he shaped the minds of future generations with his expertise and mentorship.
Larry's commitment to service extended into his community involvement, including his tenure as President of the Denton Rotary Club (1999-2000) and his role as a board member of the Springdale Rotary Club. He was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow at Rotary International for his outstanding contributions. He volunteered his time and expertise as a counselor at Christian Community Action in Lewisville, Texas, and served as a volunteer chaplain at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas, providing spiritual comfort to patients and families in times of need.
An active member of Fellowship Bible Church, Larry led the Primetime Group and served as Chairman of the Board of the Brooks Place POA, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to building strong communities and fostering connections.
Larry is survived by his loving wife Sandra Aaron, daughters; Melinda Gibson and husband Bill, and Robin Coggins and husband Bart, his grandchildren; Shane Gibson and wife Taylor, Corrie Selig and husband Ryan, and Savanna Coggins, his great-grandchildren; Kennedy Gibson and Eloise Selig, his nieces and nephews, and a host of extended family and friends.
A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 24th, with funeral service beginning at 10:00 am at the chapel of Fellowship Bible Church in Rogers. A burial will immediately follow at Spring Creek Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks the contributions in Larry’s honor be made to The Myositis Association at www.myositis.org or Via (formerly Center for Mission Mobilization) at https://www.vianations.org/give/selig
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