Larry Wayne King

Larry Wayne King September 14, 1944 – May 2, 2026

Larry Wayne King—affectionately known as "Ba" or "Ba Ba"—passed away on May 2, 2026, at the age of 81, following a valiant four-year battle with malignant melanoma. A man of remarkable strength, fierce loyalty, and an unmistakable work ethic, Larry leaves a lasting legacy of integrity for the family and friends who adored him.

Born on September 14, 1944, Larry was the second of five brothers. His character was forged early; at just 12 years old, he moved to Point Pleasant, WV, to help his grandmother, “Momma King,” care for his ailing grandfather, “Daddy King.” After his grandfather’s passing, Larry returned to Columbus and began what would become a legendary career in the beer distribution industry.

At age 21, he started at Mid-Ohio Distributing before joining Columbus Distributing Company on January 1, 1970. Over 45 years of service, Larry earned top seniority and was twice named Employee of the Year. Most famously, he achieved perfect attendance for all 45 years—a streak only the Great Blizzard of ’78 could momentarily interrupt. He retired on March 31, 2015, respected by all who worked alongside him.

Outside of work, Larry was defined by his faith and his many passions. He was a gifted carpenter who spent years perfecting his home through remodeling projects, decks, and fences. A sportsman at heart, he lived and breathed all things Ohio State Buckeyes, though he always found room to cheer for the Miami Dolphins, frequently traveling to South Florida for games. His love for travel took the family on annual trips to Myrtle Beach and Miami, as well as adventures in Arizona, Chicago, New York, Arkansas, Las Vegas, and St. Thomas.

An avid boater and slalom skier, Larry taught countless family members and friends how to get up on the water for the first time. He was never happier than when he was skiing in tandem with the love of his life. His faith was a cornerstone of his later years, and he was proudly baptized on September 10, 2022.

Above all, Larry was a devoted family man. He shared almost 53 beautiful years of marriage with his wife, Phyllis J. King, building a life defined by adventure and steadfast commitment. The two were rarely apart, spending nearly every minute of every day together—exactly the way they both wanted life to be.

Larry was preceded in death by his grandparents; his parents, Eddie and Opal King; his brothers, Jimmy and Kenny King; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Richard and Ruth Rall; his son, Larry Wayne King II; and his grandson, Kevin Patrick Karn.

He is survived and deeply missed by his beloved wife, Phyllis; his three sons, Ron Karn, Bruce Karn, and Bret King; his brothers, Gary (Faye) King and Terry King; and his cherished grandchildren, Justin King, Molly Karn, Karis King, and Brady King. He also leaves behind a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever carry his spirit and his Buckeyes pride with them.

Service Information Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Sunday, May 10th, from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM, with a service to follow from 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM at: Newcomer Funeral Home 3047 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43231

To honor Larry’s lifelong love of the Scarlet and Gray, the family requests that you wear your favorite Ohio State Buckeyes attire.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.