William Larry Keith

William Larry Keith, also known by many as “LK”, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 4, 2026 at Florence Hand Nursing Home. He was 84 years old.

Larry was born on April 17, 1942, in Hogansville, to the late Floyd Daniel Keith, Sr. and Gladys Denney Keith. A lifelong resident of Hogansville, Larry graduated from Greenville High School, where he was a proud and active member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). His passion for agriculture and leadership was recognized early when he was awarded the prestigious American Farmer Degree in St. Louis, Missouri following his graduation.

He went on to serve his country in the Georgia Army National Guard, dedicating eight years during the Vietnam War Era, serving with honor and pride.

Larry's professional life was marked by his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to rural life. He owned and operated L.K. 's BBQ restaurant for many years in Hogansville and LaGrange where he was well known for both his cooking and hospitality.

Prior to entering the restaurant business, Larry owned and operated a meat processing market, along with a BBQ stand, where he sold his delicious barbecue every Saturday for many years.

His love for barbecue and hospitality also gave Larry the opportunity to provide catering at Franklin Road Music Park, where he had the privilege of serving many country music stars over the years, including Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, and Conway Twitty. These opportunities were among the many memorable experiences of his life and reflected his passion for cooking and serving others.

In addition, he managed a successful dairy farm in Meriwether County for over 30 years, and later worked in the cattle industry and forestry business, from which he eventually retired.

Larry had a deep love for cattle, the outdoors, and the simple joys of country life. He found great pleasure in working with his cattle and spending time on the farm. Whether he was in the pasture, in the milking barn, at the stockyard sales, or simply riding around the countryside, Larry was happiest surrounded by the things he loved. LK also enjoyed bringing family and friends together, hosting many dove shoots and fish fries over the years, creating countless special memories and sharing his love of the outdoors, good food, and fellowship. He also had a special love for his dog, Rosie, who was his faithful companion and an important part of his life.

For over three decades, Larry was also a respected voice in the electric cooperative community. He served on the Diverse Power Board of Directors for 32 years as secretary, treasurer, chairman of the Planning and Policy Committee and member of the Executive Committee while representing District I and the Hogansville area. During his tenure, he earned recognition as a Credentialed Cooperative Director and received the Board Leadership Certificate from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). He also served as a voting delegate at national meetings and contributed to numerous committees throughout his time on the board.

Larry is survived by his wife, Mary Sue Keith, of Gulf Shores, Alabama; children, Mark and Leigh Smith of LaGrange, Michael and Stephanie Keith of Hogansville, Melissa Mathes of Sharpsburg, and Calvin Keith of Hogansville; step-children, Greg and Dawn Brannan of Keller, Texas, and Steve and Heather Merna of Orange Beach, Alabama; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his aunt, Lucile Denney Daniel; and his brother, Floyd Daniel Keith, Jr.

A memorial service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 9, in the Chapel of Claude A. McKibben and Sons Funeral Home in Hogansville, with the Reverend Max McCord officiating.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 8.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made to Callaway Baptist Church, 310 John Lovelace Road, LaGrange, GA 30241.

Condolences may be expressed at www.mckibbenfuneralhome.com

Claude A. McKibben and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.