The Richmond News, Jan. 16, 2026

Larry Renfro

Charles “Larry” Renfro, 88, of California, Mo., passed away Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at Stonebridge Oak Tree in Jefferson City with his loving wife by his side. Larry was born Feb. 4, 1937, on the family farm near Millville, the son of Charles and Ruby (Dreves) Renfro. He was first united in marriage to Anita Blair of Richmond. To this union, his three children were born. She preceded him in death.

He was then united in marriage to Norma “Jean” Coleman of Richmond. She also preceded him in death.

He was later united in marriage to Jane Crawford-Strobel of California, Mo., on Feb. 25, 2020. She survives of the home.

Additional survivors include his two sons, David (Tracey) Renfro of Richmond and Kyle (Jill) Renfro of Marshall; and daughter, Susan Balthrop of Kansas City. Still other survivors include six grandchildren: Jeremy (Brittany) Renfro, Ryan (Ashley) Renfro, Braydon Renfro (Autumn Burton), Adrienne Balthrop, Mason (Lauryn) Paulus and Miles Paulus (Faith Johnson). Seven great-grandsons; a brother, Bruce Renfro of Millville; and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his first and second wives, he was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Tanner Newman.

Larry was raised and educated in the area of his birth and graduated in 1955 from Richmond High School. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the National Guard for several years.

A respected and well-known builder throughout the area, Larry worked in both residential and commercial construction. He was the developer of the Deer Ridge Addition in Richmond, and the quality craftsmanship of the homes and businesses he built will stand for many years as a lasting tribute to his life and work.

In addition to his construction career, Larry worked alongside his son David for a couple years during the wheat harvest, traveling from Texas to North Dakota. When not working, he enjoyed quail hunting, mushroom hunting, and the many family vacations he and his wife shared over the years.

Larry was active in his community and served on the Ray County Fair Board.

Following his retirement, Larry made his home in the Branson area. During those years, Larry continued his love of building by crafting bird feeders and birdhouses for many homes in the Branson area.

He was a man of the Christian faith. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, devotion to family and the life he built alongside those he loved.

Throughout his later years, Larry found great companionship and support in his wife Jane, with whom he shared many cherished memories.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation and funeral services were scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 15, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at noon, followed by the services at 1 p.m. Burial was to be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memories of Larry with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhoem.com.