Larry Dale Rideout

Larry Dale Rideout, a devoted Christian man, cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away comfortably at his home in Gulf Shores, Alabama, on April 9, 2026. Born on October 22, 1947, in Morgantown, West Virginia, Larry’s life was marked by steadfast faith, deep love for family, and a rich tapestry of interests and service.

The oldest of six children, Larry grew up in Texas, nurtured by the gentle guidance of his mother, Stella Rideout, a librarian, and his father, Holbert Rideout, a preacher. His upbringing instilled in him the values of kindness, quiet strength, and a joyful spirit. Larry was known for his soft-spoken and gentle nature, balanced with an unexpected sense of humor and a remarkable ability to listen deeply.

Larry’s military career was distinguished and honorable. Serving twenty years in the United States Army, he retired with the rank of Major. Among his assignments, he cherished his time with the 82nd Airborne Division, where he proudly recounted his days parachuting from planes and helicopters. His humorous quip, “Yes, I am jumping out of perfectly good airplanes,” reflected a bravery coupled with humility and a lighthearted spirit.

Music was a lifelong passion for Larry. From his youth playing guitar in a high school band aiming to be “the Beatles,” to two decades of barbershop quartet singing, he found joy in harmonies and community. For fifty years, Larry led congregational singing at various churches, his warm voice and pitch pipe a cherished presence. His family fondly remembers his openness in allowing his children to choose songs for services, making them feel especially valued and connected to their faith.

In his retirement years, Larry embraced life’s simple and profound pleasures. Living near the beach brought him peace and happiness, where he delighted in building sandcastles and digging holes alongside his fourteen grandchildren. Known affectionately as the grandpa who sat on the floor and played, he created treasured, hands-on memories with his family. Annual traditions, such as making Christmas cookies with his children and grandchildren—often motivated by his fondness for tasting them—added sweetness to their lives. His grandchildren would often climb into his lap with books, eager to hear his deep, clear, radio announcer voice read stories, whether from the Bible or Curious George, a sound warmly remembered by all.

Alongside family, Larry enjoyed traveling extensively, from Mexico and the Caribbean to Europe on cruises with his beloved wife Gwen. Of all the journeys, his visits to Israel held a special place in his heart as he walked the lands where Jesus once walked, deepening his faith and understanding.

Larry’s proudest accomplishment perhaps lies in the spiritual journey shared with his wife Gwen. Together for nearly fifty years, they nurtured a bond rooted in faith and love. Gwen often reflected that God had chosen Larry for her, guiding her into the truth and love of Christianity.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Gwen; his four children, Kara and her husband Rick Williams, Rene and her husband Brett Adams, Kenny and his wife Ali, and Rachel and her husband Jarrod Drysdale; fourteen grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He is also fondly remembered by his siblings, Jana Owen, Nyla Davis, Deryl Rideout, and Teryl Rideout.

Larry Dale Rideout’s legacy is one of quiet strength, unwavering faith, loving family devotion, and a life enriched by music, laughter, and service. His memory will endure in the countless photographs and videos capturing moments of joy, the heartfelt songs sung in church and family gatherings, and the deep love he poured into every role he embraced. He leaves behind a family and community forever grateful for the man who so gently and kindly walked among them.