Larry Eugene Isaac, 85, of Lawrence, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, September 7, 2025, after courageously facing a number of medical challenges.
Born on June 26, 1940, in a farmhouse near Meade, Kansas, Larry Isaac was the son of John and Frieda Isaac. From an early age, he demonstrated outstanding athletic talent, quickly emerging as a star basketball player at Meade Bible Academy. Building on these natural gifts, Larry continued to excel on the court throughout his college years, starting every season for Tabor College’s basketball team. Alongside his athletic achievements, he pursued academic excellence, earning his undergraduate degree from Tabor College before completing a Master’s Degree in Education at the University of Kansas.
Larry began his teaching career in Bennington, Kansas, but soon after accepted his dream job in Lawrence, a town he loved deeply. He taught at Central Junior High from 1966 to 1967 before moving to South Junior High School, where he taught for the next 29 years until his retirement.
In retirement, Larry remained active—helping Becky with her local hair salon and day spa, and even enjoying a seven-year stint working for the IRS.
Larry’s life revolved around family and sports—especially Kansas athletics. Although a devoted KU supporter, he never missed a Chiefs or Royals game and took the greatest joy in watching his children and grandchildren play sports. Larry’s sports knowledge was unmatched—he could talk sports with anyone, anytime. His quick wit and humor lit up every room he entered.
Larry married Barbara Lowenthal, with whom he had a daughter and a son. Later, he met and married the love of his life, Becky Isaac. For 35 years, Larry loved and supported Becky and her family until her passing from cancer in 2013. He later found companionship with Rosalie Hyde, and the two shared ten wonderful years together until her passing from cancer in 2024.
Larry is survived by his daughter, Natalie Isaac of Lawrence; his son, Todd Isaac of Lawrence; his stepdaughters, Kelli Curry and her husband Shane of Lawrence, and Kristi Stallings and her husband Wayne of Atchison, Kansas; his sister, Shirley Zortman of Wichita; and three beloved grandchildren, Regan, Reese, and Colton Curry. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Frieda Isaac.
Above all, Larry took immense pride in his family. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and never met a stranger. His warmth, sincerity, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life Gathering for Larry will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.
My sympathy to the family. I grew up in Grant Township and attended Bismarck School. Frieda Schaake Heck (Arthur) and Irene Schaake Vogel (John) were sisters, making Kelvin and me first cousins. I attended Bismarck School for eight years, then Central Junior High for one year; I edited the “Red & Black” yearbook at Lawrence High. I still miss the football games at Haskell Stadium.
My sympathy. Nancy Vogel
What a wonderful man and teacher. I appreciated him so much. My thoughts are with you at his passing.
Larry was a gem in all regards. He was a people person who made every person feel valued. He was a great teacher and he never met a stranger. I’m so sorry for his family’s lost. A fellow SJHS teacher
One of my all time favorite teachers of all time. South Junior High Cougars.