Larry Donell Woodard Jr

Larry Donell Woodard, Jr., age 35, was born on April 13, 1990, in Chicago at Mount Sinai Hospital. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend whose life was marked by his musical gifts, family devotion, and vibrant personality. Larry was the beloved son of his parents, Larry Woodard, Sr., and Cheryl James. Affectionately known as “ Lil Larry” and “LJ” to many of his loved ones, he brought joy, laughter, and warmth to those who knew him best. Larry received his early education at Pablo Casals Elementary School and later attended Orr Academy High School. He continued his studies by taking general courses at East-West University. T hroughout his life, he held various jobs while exploring his passions and talents. From an early age, Larry displayed a deep love for music. Beginning in elementary school, he studied piano for approximately eight years at Sherwood Conservatory of Music, often accompanied by his dear great-aunt, Alice. His musical abilities were evident to all who knew him. As a young teenager, he played the piano at Macy’s restaurant during the Christmas holiday season and won first place in a talent show at his family church, coordinated by his beloved great-uncle, Norvell. Larry’s love for music was nurtured within his family, where he frequently sang and played piano alongside relatives in his grandmother’s living room. Larry was also blessed to be able to play along the Legendary Albertina Walker. He was also presented with an award from her to honor him and his musical acumen. His musical foundation was deeply rooted in both his mother’s and father’s sides of the family, where talent and encouragement surrounded him. Larry was also rooted in faith. In his early years, he faithfully attended St. Luke Church of God in Christ with his grandmother, Doris, where he was an active member of the youth choir. Later, he attended Mt. Carmel Holiness Church with his grandmother, Roberta, and other family members at their home church. As a vocalist, his voice was also used to sing with the Angelic Youth Choir and the Hargrove Family Choir. Larry sang locally with his family and professionally recorded and traveled with his family to perform in other states, sharing his gift of music and ministry with many audiences. As a child, Larry dreamed of becoming a train engineer, inspired by one of his cousins. His fascination with trains brought him great joy. When he was younger, his grandmother Roberta would often take him to the Burger King on 1st Avenue and Lake Street, just so he could sit and watch the trains go by—moments that became cherished memories of his childhood. His curiosity, imagination, and sense of wonder remained with him throughout his life. On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Larry departed from his earthly dwelling as a young man, leaving many loved ones, friends, and brothers, Thomas James, Jr., Anthony Freeman and Robert Reed (Nicole); nieces, Kenesha, Kayla, Kiera, Harper, and Madison; one nephew, Kenneth; a great-niece, Harmony, and a great-nephew, Humble; sister-cousins, Danette and Jennifer; and a host of other extended family and friends who loved him dearly. Larry’s life will be remembered for his musical spirit, his love for family, and the joy he brought into the lives of those around him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and truly missed! loved him. Larry “

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