Larry Kent Massey

Chief Warrant Officer Five (CW5) Larry Kent Massey, age 81, of Indianapolis, formerly from Bloomington, passed away on February 17, 2023. Larry is survived by his wife Mary, sister Karen; Brother Kim (Marie), Children Kyle (Cheryl), Kendall (Vivi), and Allison (William) Hollin; grandchildren Jonathan, Joshua, Noah, Silas, Jonas, Lyla, Lucas, Ryder, Miles and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Larry was born in 1941 in Charleston, West Virginia to Jack and Augusta Massey. The family moved many times during Larry’s youth. In 1956, they settled in Bloomington, where he attended Bloomington High School and became interested in music and community activities. He was a member and officer in the marching band, symphonic band, and orchestra. He also participated in Student Council and the High-Y Club, and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church.

Larry had an interest in community involvement and participated in many groups that stressed the importance of high moral character throughout his life. In the Boy Scouts of America, he distinguished himself in a variety of activities and leadership positions and earned the Eagle Scout and Explorer Silver Award ranks, the highest levels of achievement at that time. After graduating from high school in 1959, Larry enrolled at Indiana University and increased his musical talents as a member of the Marching Hundred. He was a lifelong supporter of Indiana football and basketball teams serving as an Official for the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA).

Larry was a dedicated soldier and patriot. While at IU, he enrolled in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). This experience led him to enlist in the U.S. Army in 1963. In 1968, he joined the Indiana National Guard. Larry worked in both the Bloomington and Stout Field Armories. He proudly served the Indiana National Guard on active duty and as a civilian for 51 years (1968-2019). He served as the Executive Director of the National Guard Association of Indiana and as the Warrant Officer Representative on the National Guard Association of the United States Board and its Board of Directors. Larry retired as Indiana’s First Command Chief Warrant Officer Five. During retirement Larry enjoyed traveling and playing golf (he loved talking about shooting a hole in one) and looked forward to spending time with his family.

There will be visitation on Friday, February 24, 2023, from 3 to 8 pm and on Saturday, February 25, 2023, from 9 to 11 am at Flanner Buchanan Decatur Township with services beginning at 11am. Military honors to follow the service.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Franciscan Health Indianapolis for their excellent care and kindness. Larry included in his wishes that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions could be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. To share your fond memories and stories with Larry’s family you are encouraged to go to www.flannerbuchanan.com