Larry Upton, Jr., age 60, passed away on July 31, 2020 at his home. He was born on December 10, 1959 to Larry Joe Upton and Grace Abbott McKinney.

Larry attended both Fulton and Tremont schools. He graduated from ICC in Fulton, graduated from MSU with a double major, Masters Degree in Public Policy and Administration and Psychology. After graduation, he worked for the MS Department of Rehab services. Many didn't feel he would accomplish what he had set out to do, but he was determined and he worked his way up to District Manager. He loved helping people to overcome obstacles in order to be able to return to work and live a productive life. Even after retirement, former co-workers and clients would call him at home for recommendations and advice.

Larry's accident in 1975 changed his life forever, but with the love and sheer determination and hands-on care of his mother, Grace, and the love and support of his best friend Tony Bennett, Larry began a new normal. Tony would get Larry out every weekend for typical teenage fun. His love for Tony was that of a brother.

Larry had a passion for racing and mechanics. If not for the accident, who knows what he would have accomplished in the racing world. He continued his love for racing with his cousin Billy Wade Bullock, and many memories were made working on race cars and on the racetrack. Even up until a few weeks ago, they would talk on phone for hours solving all the world's problems. Larry had developed a close relationship with his brother Matt over the last several years, and he treasured that so much. Larry loved teaching and evolving his son Michael in the racing world. He told Sherrie on many occasions he could not have hand picked a better son.

Larry met Sherrie many years ago, as she was his homecare nurse. He jokingly tells outsiders he couldn't afford to pay her any longer, so he had to marry her. Larry and Sherrie had a deep unconditional love. Sherrie did not see the wheelchair; she saw the man he was.

The family would like to say a special thank you to Dr. Huffman and the NMMC Homecare and Hospice staff. You took amazing care of him. Thank you to the caregivers that were in the home over the last 2 years helping Larry and Sherrie. Thank you to all the close friends that have meant so much to him. Clay and Ashley, thank you so much.

Larry was a great influence to everyone he met. He loved his family, he loved life. He will be greatly missed by many.

He is survived by his wife, Sherrie Murphy Upton of Starkville, Mississippi; his mother, Grace Abbott McKinney of Fulton, Mississippi; one son, Michael (Rachel) Womack of Louisville, Mississippi; two brothers, Matt (Regina) Upton of Fulton, Mississippi and John McMillan.

He is preceded in death by his father, Larry Joe Upton.

A private family only graveside will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Wise Reed Funeral Home in Eupora, Mississippi. A private family only visitation will be held on Sunday prior to the service from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. Officiating the service will be Brother Johnny Lollar. Pallbearers are Michael Womack, Clay Cummings, Matt Upton, Tony Bennett, Bill Wade Bullock, and David Murphy, Jr. Wise Reed Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.