Larry James McElhaney
1951-2026
LAKE TOMAHAWK — Larry James McElhaney, of Lake Tomahawk, 74, was born in East Liverpool Nov. 23, 1951, and went home to be with the Lord May 25, 2026.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Ray and Mary Louise (Allison) McElhaney, infant brother, Randy David McElhaney and a sister, Tammy Kay (Jeff) Rankin.
Larry was a loving husband of 49 years to Tammy (Ross) McElhaney.
He was also survived by two sons, Brandon James (Anita) McElhaney of Kenora, Ontario, Canada, Derek Tyler (Amanda) McElhaney of Columbiana, Ohio; a daughter, Christy Mays of Leetonia; a loving grandfather of Ezra McElhaney, Caidyn, Trevor, Emmitt and Amelia McElhaney and Aithen, Zoe, Melia, Niko and Demetri Mays.
His surviving siblings are Tom (Linda) McElhaney of Manheim, Pa., Vicki (John) Cosma of Hendersonville, Tenn., and Marsha Green of Danville, Va.; two sisters-in-law, Terry (Roy) Seaux of Mount Hope, W.Va., and Tabatha (Jim) Soker of Girard; and many nieces and nephews.
Larry was a dedicated and active member of Lake Mount Church of Christ, (since 1964) where he served faithfully as a Teacher and Elder as well as a door greeter for many years. He considered it a privilege to be the first face people saw on Sunday mornings. With a warm smile, a comforting word, and an unwavering spirit of hospitality, Larry made everyone who walked through the doors feel like family. His presence was a true blessing to the congregation, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Above all, he strived to be a living testament to the love of Christ. His deepest desire was to reflect that love through his daily actions, living intentionally so his choices were a direct reflection of the love of Jesus. For him, the greatest calling was to show Christ’s love by how he treated others: he truly led a life rooted in faith, quietly teaching through his example.
Larry shared a beautiful partnership with his wife, loving nothing more than traveling, camping, and boating together, as well as dinner dates. Another of his greatest joys was fellowshipping with friends and family, whether he was playing cards or cheering on his grandchildren in all of their activities. An avid football fan, he loved watching his favorite teams, the Minnesota Vikings, Ohio State Buckeyes and the Crestview Rebels. His family was his true pride and joy, and he cherished his friendships deeply.
His services will be a reflection of the life he lived. The family requests that you join them in celebrating Larry’s life on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 5 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of Lake Mount Church of Christ, 6290 SR-7 New Waterford, OH for a time to share stories, eat some of Larry’s favorite foods he was not supposed to eat and have a time of fellowship with family and friends.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Lake Mount Church of Christ in Larry’s name.
Linsley-Royal Funeral Home in East Palestine is in charge of arrangements.
Visit www.linsley-royal.com to sign the online guest book and view this obituary.
5/27/26
