Lawrence "Larry" French

Lawrence French, longtime Malden resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at The Residence at Freeman Lake in Chelmsford, MA. Larry was 94.

Born in Malden on May 6, 1930, he the youngest of four children of the late Albert H. D. and Alice (Garrigan) French. He graduated from Malden High School, Boston University and attended Andover Newton Theological School.

Larry was always proud of his bi-vocational career. His degree from BU prepared him for his career as a Jr. High school teacher at the Hobbs Jr. High in Medford and his years at Andover Newton were preparation for his vocation as an American Baptist minister. He served churches in Watertown, Carver, Chelsea, Somerville and Winchester.

Always the life of the party, Larry was known for his bigger than life personality, sense of humor and outgoing nature. Never at a loss for a joke or teasing comment, his students at the Hobbs and his parishioners in his churches appreciated his zest for life.

When not involved in his careers, Larry was a world traveler, with destinations all over the US and including Europe, South America, Africa, and the Middle East.

A unique thing about Larry was his pets, which included, in addition to dogs and cats throughout his life, also two white faced capuchin monkeys, Candy and Mork. Enjoying the antics of Mork, tethered in his yard in Maplewood, was a destination for folks from near and far.

Larry will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by those blessed to know and love him. Special mention of Lawrence Starr, a dear and valued lifelong friend.

Larry was the brother of the late Dinestead French, Albert H. French and Alice (Betty) Rideout. He is survived by nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to gather in honor of Larry during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 2:00-5:00pm, followed by a Service of Remembrance at 5:00pm. If you wish, donations in Larry's memory may be made to Grotonwood Camp and Conference Center, 167 Prescott St., Groton MA 01450 www.grotonwood.org/support-us

LIVESTREAM

Larry's Service of Remembrance will be livestreamed, starting at 5:00pm. To watch a livestream of the service remotely, please click here