Larry Ray Torbert

Larry Ray Torbert, 75, of Seaford, Delaware, peacefully passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024, after a brief illness at TidalHealth Nanticoke Hospital in Seaford. Born on April 27, 1949, Larry dedicated his life to his family and his work as an engineer for ConRail and Norfolk Southern. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will be cherished by all who knew him. In his early days, Larry was raised in Georgetown before moving to Laurel and graduated from Laurel High School with the class of 1967. During his high school years, Larry played for the Laurel Bulldogs football team under the guidance of Coach Schollenberger. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served his country for several years. He retired after a proud and fulfilling career of 38 years with the railroad, a job he truly loved. He served several years as the local union representative for The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. His greatest joy came from his family. Larry took immense pride in supporting his children and grandchildren at their respective sporting and school events - he was always there for them. His presence was a constant source of encouragement and love. He shared many meaningful conversations with his grandchildren as he looked forward to picking them up from school every day. Larry enjoyed preparing meals for his family and took pride in maintaining a manicured home landscape. Camp Arrowhead held a special place in his heart where he made many fond memories with his family. In addition to his family life, Larry had a passion for antiquing, particularly enjoying the thrill of traveling to auctions to enhance his prized collection of old milk bottles from Sussex County dairies. He was also an avid sports enthusiast; for many years, he played church league softball, men's fast and slow pitch softball, coached in the Laurel Little League, and served on the Board for the Nanticoke Little League, where he was selected as volunteer of the year. Larry was a longtime member of American Legion Post 19 in Laurel and an active member of St. Philip's Episcopal Church. He enjoyed throwing darts and was quite a pool shark on the pool table. Larry absolutely loved horse racing and was a lifelong, faithful fan of the Phillies and Redskins. Larry is survived by his beloved wife of over 45 years, Faith (Givens) Torbert, his son Todd Torbert and his wife Heather of Ijamsville MD, his daughter Tracy Torbert and fiance Jay Houston of Seaford, DE. A proud grandfather, Larry brought immense joy to his grandchildren Mason Torbert, Brayden Houston, Grace Torbert, and Braylee Houston, attending their significant life events with enthusiasm and encouragement. He is also remembered fondly by his sisters, Wanda Dukes and Tammy Faulkner, several nieces and nephews, and many close, special friends. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore "Ted" and Mary Z. (Wiley) Torbert, and siblings, Carol Elzey, Linda Williams, and Martin Torbert. A visitation will be held at St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Laurel on Saturday, December 21, 2024, from 10:00 am. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at the church starting at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. Dr. Jack Anderson will officiate. Larry will then be laid to rest in Laurel Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Larry to St. Philips Episcopal Church, 600 S. Central Avenue, Laurel, DE 19956. Larry will be deeply missed, but his spirit will always remain in the hearts of those he touched. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home of Delmar. To share online condolences with the family please visit www.shortfh.com.

Larry Ray Torbert

April 27, 1949 - December 9, 2024