Robert Larry Pumphrey

Robert Larry Pumphrey, known to everyone simply as Larry, passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy defined by quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and an absolute devotion to the people and places he loved. Born on January 26, 1940, in Columbus, Indiana, he was the son of William Henry and Florence Uvon (Schnabel) Pumphrey. Larry grew up in Columbus, graduating from Columbus High School before attending Indiana University. While at IU, he studied General Business and participated in the ROTC program, which paved the way for his proud service in the United States Air Force. After his military service, Larry returned home and dedicated 32 years of hard work to Cummins Engine Company, where he was a respected and meticulous Project Manager until his retirement.

To know Larry was to understand a man who believed that if something was worth doing, it was worth doing perfectly. He was honest, deeply responsible, and famously particular about his endeavors—traits that extended even to his favorite hobby. An avid golfer, Larry famously hung up his clubs for good the moment he found himself “just” shooting par, choosing to leave the game exactly at his best. Yet, beneath his precise nature was an incredibly even-tempered, gentle soul. He possessed a rare, grounding presence and had a special gift for being the one who could always calm the storm when life grew chaotic.

Larry’s deep faith and his love for family were the anchors of his life. He was a longtime, devoted member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, where he selflessly served his congregation as an Elder, a welcoming usher, and an active participant in various Bible studies. Some of his happiest, most peaceful moments were spent out on the water, boating and sharing stories with his family during cherished trips to Lutheran Lake. Larry was a man who loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. On January 2, 2003, he married his beloved wife, Linda, who survives him. He also leaves behind a family he adored, including his stepchildren, Matthew (Amanda) Luse, Kimberly (Brian) Bennett, and Amanda (John) Darlage; his sister, Nancy (Wayne) Malan; and five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to his later years. Larry also shared an incredibly close, lifelong bond with his nieces and nephews, Billy Pumphrey, Steve Pumphrey, Pam Cook, Jennifer Howe, and Jill Britt, all of whom held a truly special place in his heart, along with a host of great nieces and nephews.  He was welcomed into eternity by his parents and his brother, William Allen Pumphrey.

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Larry’s life during a visitation on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Noon at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory. A private family graveside service will follow at Garland Brook Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest. For those who wish to honor Larry’s memory, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Foundation or to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana.