LTC George Ray Large, retired U.S. Army veteran, 89, departed this life peacefully at home in Aberdeen MD on February 24, 2025. George, who was known as Ray to his family, lived a rich and fulfilling life dedicated to family, service and community.
A proud Appalachian, George Large was born in Dickenson County, VA on July 18, 1935, to Garnett (Mullins) and Hiram Large. He was raised on Caney Ridge where he helped his brother Darrell tend their family hillside garden and take care of the family cow. His father was a coal miner who had been blacklisted by the coal company for helping to form a union in the mines. He joined the Army Reserve while in high school to help pay the expenses of his education. After a tour of Germany, he attended Virginia Tech but soon returned to active duty because he had fallen in love with Glenda Faye Hillman, and this would enable him to provide for life with his wife. George served as an enlisted man for eight years as a Cannoneer, Section Chief and Platoon Sergeant. He was accepted to Officer Candidate School (OCS) and was commissioned as an Officer in 1960. George served another 18 years as an Artillery Officer, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He commanded five different Artillery Batteries and was most proud of his service as Battery Operations Officer to B Battery 4th Field Artillery during combat operations in the Vietnam War. His distinguished military career included overseas tours in Germany, Vietnam, and two tours in Korea. He was awarded the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and many other service awards.
He made his home in Aberdeen, Maryland, where he became a cherished member of the community. After retiring from active duty, he continued to serve the nation by contributing his expertise in civil service, specifically with U.S. Army Maintenance Support Activity on Aberdeen Proving Ground and with SURVICE Engineering. His dedication to his work and his country earned him respect and admiration from all who knew him.
Upon retiring George wrote and had published guidebooks for several Civil War Battlefields, including Gettysburg and Antietam. This project was a reflection of his love for the history of his country.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, George was a devoted husband of the late Glenda (Hillman) Large and proud father to three daughters: Amber Wilson, Angela Young (Wayne) and Donna Macek (Paul). He embraced the role of grandfather with joy, leaving behind a legacy through his beloved grandchildren: Amanda Howard, Andrea Tenney (Eric), Michael Young (McKenzie), Amy Petty (Chris), Steven Wilson, Wesley Macek, and Sydney Macek. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Gary Howard III, Jacob Tenney, Olivia Tenney, William Young, Nora Young and Brooks Petty. George is survived by his loving sister, Saundra Waters, and sister-in-law, Rheta Large, while he was predeceased by his brothers, Darrell and Roger Large. George also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, friends and extended family members who were touched by his kindness and warmth.
A vibrant spirit with a passion for life, George found great joy in gardening, reading, and volunteering with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and the Veterans Administration (VA). His contributions to his community through service and his creative talents as a handyman touched the lives of many. As a valued member of Grace United Methodist Church, he found fellowship and purpose within his congregation.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate George's remarkable life during a memorial visitation that will be held at Zellman Funeral Home, P.A., 927 Pulaski Highway, Havre de Grace, Maryland on March 20, 2025, from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M., followed by a memorial service at 6:00 PM. Officiating Chaplain Jonathan Morse.
We invite all who knew and loved George to join us in honoring his memory, sharing stories, and embracing the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to serving others and cherishing his family. His spirit will continue to inspire all of us, and while he will be sorely missed, he will forever be celebrated in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations directed to the Disabled American Veterans.
Interment will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.
Messages of condolences and memories to share may be made at www.zellmanfuneralhome.com