Laurence "Larry" Tedford

Laurence “Larry” Tedford, a retired Certified Public Accountant, passed away on April 15, 2026—Tax Day—surrounded by his loved ones. He was just days shy of his 92nd birthday.

Larry was born on April 20, 1934, on the family farm in Pinkstaff, Illinois, to Robert and Esther Tedford. He often reflected on his humble beginnings: a childhood home without plumbing or electricity and an education that began in a one-room schoolhouse.

After graduating from Lawrenceville High School, Larry worked on the family farm before joining the United States Navy four years later. His service took him far beyond the Midwest, including time stationed in the South Pacific aboard the USS Essex, where he served as a self-described “pencil pusher.” During his Navy years, he began taking business classes, planting the seeds for his future career.

Following his military service, Larry continued working while attending night classes in accounting at the University of Evansville. His dedication paid off when he earned his CPA license at age 32. He went on to spend more than 30 years with what became Kemper CPA Group, taking great pride in helping expand the firm nationwide as a Partner.

On September 12, 1964, Larry married Joanna Mooney, and together they shared 62 years of love and adventure. They raised their three children in Mt. Carmel and cherished the memories made throughout the years.

Larry’s children fondly remember his steady presence in their lives—sponsoring the Lario’s youth basketball team, coaching youth sports, and shucking corn in the early morning hours for Rotary Corn Days each summer. He treasured his early Saturday tee times with friends and enjoyed traveling and golfing for as long as he was able. A devoted Cubs fan, he was ecstatic when WGN arrived in the early 1980s.

Known for his quiet demeanor, generosity, and deep commitment to his community, Larry was an avid supporter of Mt. Carmel Golden/Lady Aces athletics. He contributed his time and leadership to numerous local organizations, including the Mt. Carmel High School Booster Club, the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Wabash Valley College Warriors Boosters, and St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Larry and Joanna rarely missed a big game, traveling across the country well into their 80s to cheer on their teams.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Margaret, John, Treva, and Jerry.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joanna; his brother, Max (Debbie); his sons, Brent (Tracee) and Chris (Christine); his daughter, Sara (Loren); and his grandchildren, Nate, Connor, Elizabeth, Cooper, and Colter.

A private family service will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, with a public visitation to follow from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Central Time at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for Larry may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com.

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Tedford family.

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