Edward Michael Larotonda's Obituary
Edward Michael LaRotonda, 71, graduated to Heaven on January 6, 2026 at his home surrounded by family. He was born on August 18,1954 in Long Island, NY to the late Michael T. LaRotonda and Barbara (Penaro) Drago.
Ed also served faithfully in his local church teaching Sunday School, serving on the board and as the Prayer leader. He loved the Lord and found great peace in reading his Bible and praying. He prayed for countless people—many of whom may never have known—but his prayers were sincere, constant, and rooted in love. Ed has received the “well done good and faithful award”.
Learning and growing remained important to him throughout his life, and one of his most recent accomplishments was graduating from a two-year Bible school program from Houston Faith Bible Institute with his wife—a milestone he was especially proud of.
Ed faithfully and dutifully served his country in the United States Navy for 24 years. Throughout his distinguished career, he served on submarines, at naval reserve centers, and as an inspector in an air squadron. His service reflected his strong sense of duty, integrity, and commitment.
Ed had a deep love for movies and found great joy in visiting the theater, often making it a weekly tradition to see the latest release and giving movie reviews to all his friends and anyone else he might encounter.
Ed delighted in showing others around the areas he loved, and he made a great personal tour guide. He spent countless hours watching YouTube videos and exploring on his own so that when friends and family visited from out of town, he would ensure that they had the best experience possible. Traveling was another passion of Ed’s. Before every trip, Ed carefully researched his destination, ensuring he made the most of every experience.
Above all, Ed was a devoted family man. No matter where he or his loved ones were, he made it a priority to stay connected. He faithfully called family and friends simply to check in, because relationships mattered deeply to him. Ed’s most favorite person on earth was his wife, Candace!
Ed was truly an amazing man whose life was marked by service, faith, integrity, honor and genuine love for others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Edward is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Candace LaRotonda; daughter, Lindsay Burton of Tennessee; brother, Drew LaRotonda (Jessie) of New York; 2 sisters, Lisa Deneau of New York and Debbie Bier (Richie) of North Carolina; 3 granddaughters, Abigail Painter of Rogers, Chloe Frank and Sophie Carter both of Tennessee; 2 great-grandsons, Walker and Emilio; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 11:00 am at Word of Life Fellowship Church in Bentonville, AR.
Donations in his honor can be made to:
Homes for our Troops - https://www.hfotusa.org/
Gary Sinise Foundation - https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/
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