Larry E. Chambers

Larry E. Chambers, 83 of Franklin, Indiana passed away Friday, June 28, 2024, at Community South Hospital in Indianapolis with his family at his bedside.  Larry was born in Dugger, Indiana May 6, 1941.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Bert & Pearl (Cowden) Chambers, and his beautiful daughter, Laurie Chambers Church.  He was also preceded in death by three sisters–Juanita Dennis, Maxine Steves, Barbara Davis, and a brother Arnold Chambers.  He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Phyllis Ammerman Chambers. a son, Christopher Chambers, a granddaughter, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Chambers, and his sister, Patricia Chambers (Mike) Irons, Columbus, IN.

Growing up on his parents’ farm in Sullivan County, Larry learned firsthand about farming, plowing, planting, harvesting, raising cattle, hogs, chickens, gardening, and all aspects of hard work as he helped his parents with their farm.

As a student at Dugger Union High. he was a key basketball player from 1955-1959 and track star for the 880 Run–possibly still holding the school record at 2:03 minutes.  He went on to graduate from Indiana State University with a BS degree in 1963 in Biology, Science & Health /Phys Ed.  He earned his MS degree in Biology with Advanced Studies from ISU.  

Larry taught school and coached basketball in Winamac, IN, Martinsville, IL, Oblong, IL, East Richland Olney High School in IL, and taught Biology/Science at Franklin High School in Franklin, IN where he retired.  He was always a success in the classrooms and on the basketball courts. 

Over the years, Larry received praise and respect from students, parents, and fellow professionals. Some comments from students: “Mr. Chambers’ classes are difficult, but I want to be in his class because I will learn.”  “His classes are fun & interesting.”  “Thanks Coach”.  He touched the lives of many young people in a positive way during his years in education and athletics.

In addition to a successful life in teaching, coaching, and working with young teens, Larry enjoyed carpentry, remodeling, gardening, and a self-taught woodworking hobby.  He made beautiful wood pieces, cabinetry, interior doors and woodwork for his home.  He started with bark still on, planed it down, dried the wood, cut wood to his design, stained, and finished each piece. Used in his home and homes of others–many pieces were given to others as gifts of love.  Several will be displayed at his Celebration of Life

Larry’s Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 8 at the Church of Christ, 8177 E. Clark Street in Dugger, IN where he attended growing up.  His family welcomes friends, family, students, and all to attend & celebrate Larry’s life. 

Larry will lie in rest in his parents’ family plot in the Woodard Cemetery in Dugger.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Larry’s name to:

Dugger Church of Christ 

8177 E Clark St., Dugger, IN 47848

Dugger Coal Museum

8178 E Main St, Dugger, IN 47848

Sullivan County Historical Society

(in care of the Sullivan County Library)

100 S Crowder St, Sullivan, IN 47882

Woodard Cemetery in Dugger, IN.

(in care of Benny Figg)

2462 S County Rd 200 E

Sullivan, IN 47882

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Larry E. Chambers, please visit our floral store.