Lawrence 'Larry' Rome, 68, Hays, passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at HaysMed following a very recent diagnosis of kidney cancer.
He was born on May 15, 1956, in Hays to Albertina (Rupp) and Clarence Rome. He grew up in Hays and graduated from Thomas More Prep in 1974. On July 21, 1984, Larry married Kathy Greif, and together they celebrated 40 years of marriage last summer. Their lives were enriched by two children, Josh and Nicole.
Larry dedicated 36 years of his career to Wal-Mart, where he was known for his strong work ethic and friendly sense of humor. He rarely missed a day of work and took great pride in his job, forming lasting friendships with his coworkers. He retired in January 2021.
A devoted husband and father, Larry found joy in reading, crossword puzzles, and most of all, tending to his houseplants, yard, and garden. His green thumb was a source of pride, and he cared deeply for his home and surroundings. He was a lifelong member of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church in Hays.
Survivors include his wife, Kathy; his son, Josh (Nathalie Shepherd) of New York City; his daughter, Nicole (Zach Harper) of Columbus, Ohio; and his three sisters, Mary Ann Frank and Diane Rome of Wichita, and Marie Davis of Baltimore, Maryland.
He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Rome; his mother, Albertina Rome; and a brother, Clarence Jr., who died as an infant.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church with Fr. Damian Richards, Deacon Steve Urban, and Deacon Adam Urban officiating. Burial will follow in St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Thursday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Thursday at the funeral home.
In honor of Larry’s love for houseplants and the abundance he nurtured, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers or plants, memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of the High Plains or to the Ellis County Historical Society, in care of the funeral home. Condolences and memories of Larry may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com.