Larry Ray Bixler

1938-2025

SALEM — Larry Ray Bixler, 87, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, at Salem West Health Care Center.

Born on Oct. 7, 1938 in Salem, Ohio, he was the son of the late Phillip Ray and Pauline (Everson) Bixler.

Larry was a graduate of Greenford High School and enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served from 1961 until 1963, earning the rank of Private First Class. After his honorable discharge, Larry returned to his hometown, where he would become a steadfast presence in the local workforce. For 50 years, Larry dedicated his talents to the National Rubber Machine Company (NRM) as an assembler.

From the young age of 17, Larry harnessed the airwaves as a licensed HAM Radio Operator. This love, which began as a youthful hobby, blossomed into a passion he continued throughout his life. In addition to his love for HAM radio, Larry was also known for his handiness. With an innate ability to fix most anything, he spent countless hours tinkering with TVs and various electronics, always eager to solve a new puzzle or breathe life into old machines.

A man of faith, Larry was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Leetonia. He will be lovingly remembered as a man who spoke softly and carried a big heart.

Larry is survived by his sons, Jeffery (Christy) Bixler, Allen Bixler, and Terry Bixler; granddaughter, Tiffani Bixler; great-grandchildren, Shelby and Caleb Cross; and a host of extended family that he loved very much.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his wife, the former Thelma Fullum, in 2019; and brothers, Daryl, Norman, and Phillip Bixler.

Family and friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home, 1014 E. State St., Salem. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, at the funeral home, with interment to follow at Highland Memorial Park.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Larry’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

11/8/25