Larry Eugene Hurlocker

Larry Eugene Hurlocker passed away March 12, 2022.  He was a resident of Dallas, NC since 1979.  Larry was born in Cabarrus County, son of Ray M. Hurlocker and Brown Flowe Hurlocker, and is survived by his wife, Angela Hurlocker and their beloved canine companion, Georgia.  He also leaves behind an older brother, Howard, and his wife Jennifer and niece Amy Simpson (Gary) and children Justus and Abbigail; niece Ashley Atwell (Jason) and daughter Blaine; and nephew Zachary Hurlocker (Amy) and daughters Shelby Grace and Sadie Hope.

Larry was a graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School, Mt. Pleasant, NC and graduated from East Carolina University with a degree in Geography and History.  He had formerly been Planning Director for Pitt County, NC.  On March 1, 1979 he became Planning Director for Gaston County, NC., a position he held for 27 years.

Larry was a quiet man who enjoyed woodworking and stained glass.  He literally could do just about anything he set his mind to, but sadly, for some years, his health limited his activities.

Larry was always well thought of and Sarah Carpenter Penley, one of his former employees, wrote the following regarding him, his work ethics and manner.  It is a fitting tribute to his humble nature and quiet strength.  Larry will forever be missed by all who loved him, especially his family, and by those who knew him as a coworker and as a friend.  He leaves us wanting for his presence, but oh so thankful for the pleasure and the opportunity to have known him.  He was indeed a gentle giant and his absence now leaves us with a tremendous sense of being without.

"The Gentle Giant Has Left the Building"

by

Sarah Carpenter Penley

It is with a shattered heart that I share the loss of an icon and legend for Gaston County Government - retired Planning & Community Development Services Director, Larry Hurlocker. He was a director, leader, mentor to many, trailblazer, strategist, policymaker, but most of all, a true asset to our County. As an employer, his expectations were high, but he was fair, just, compassionate, and kind.  He was the leader everyone wanted to work for and he made you want to do your best - coming to work was a pleasure and it was truly an honor if you were lucky enough to have been hired by him.  The lessons learned under his leadership are too many to mention. I think I can surely speak for all who knew him how truly missed he will be.  I have always been indebted to him for taking a chance on a young girl in her twenties.  And I hope beyond hope that I will continue to make him proud. The Planning and Development community is a little bit darker tonight with his passing. Until we meet again, we will hold onto our fondest memories and always be grateful to have been included in a small part of your world.

All services will be private with an inurnment at St. John's Lutheran Church in Concord, NC.  In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made in his honor to Gaston County Humane Society in remembrance of his previous beloved canine companions: Gabe, Bo and Sage, Pringle & Murphy, Barney and Chloe or to St. John's Lutheran Church, 100 St. John's Church Rd., Concord, NC 28025.

Thank you to the EMTs and Paramedics and Emergency Department and ICU doctors and nurses at Caromont Regional Medical Center who worked tirelessly on his behalf.  The family is especially indebted to Dr. John Carson II, who not only provided excellent care but who offered understanding and clarity in regard to Larry's wishes for his life.   Larry could not have asked for better treatment or respect and his family will always be grateful for the understanding, kindness and dignity given not only to Larry, but to each of us throughout his hospital stay.

We would also like to express our gratitude to Kelsey Finger Faulkner RN, a neighbor, who assisted with CPR before the EMTs arrived.  And to Dr. Derek Reed and the nurses and staff at Tryon Medical Partners - Gaston, who provided Larry with excellent medical care for a number of years.

Larry, you will be missed by all who knew you.  May your soul know peace for it will always be graced with love.