Larry R. Caldwell

Larry Robert Caldwell, age 76, of Wilmington, NC, formerly of Painted Post and Montour Falls, NY, died on September 7, 2026.

He was born at Shepard Hospital in Montour Falls, NY, to Phyllis (Tinker) and Robert Caldwell. Larry graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 1968 after joining the Carpenters Union at 16 years old. He worked as a machinist at Shepard Niles and in the shipping department of International Salt before marrying in 1976 and opening Caldwell's Decorating in Montour Falls together.

Larry decided to become a teacher at 40 years old and received his Bachelor's from SUNY Oswego and his Master's from Elmira College. He taught Technology (previously known as shop class), first at Tioga Center then Horseheads Middle School.

He suffered from chronic health issues and upon his medical retirement he moved to Wilmington, NC, where he is survived by his daughter Sara and son Liam (Samantha). He is also survived by daughters Danielle Rumsey and Angeline (Chris) Thomas, sister Linda (Loren) Cornish, 6 grandchildren, and hundreds of his kids' friends and students he considered his own family.

Larry's family is grateful to the caring and kind staff at Liberty Commons who kept him safe and comfortable for the last 5 years of his life, as well as Larry's longest friend Bob McIlroy and last friend Peter Rosario, whom he treasured.

A private ceremony will take place on Sugar Hill at a later date. Anyone wishing to donate in Larry's honor should direct funds to his favorite organizations, the Special Olympics and Running Strong for American Indian Youth.

Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home in Watkins Glen is assisting the family.