Larry Norman Loftin of Lubbock, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the age of 78. He was born December 9, 1947, in Borger, Texas. His family later settled in Monahans, Texas, where he graduated from high school before continuing his education at Texas Tech University in Lubbock.

While attending Texas Tech, Larry met the love of his life, Rose Leatherman. The couple married on August 29, 1966, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 60 years. Larry was never shy about expressing his love and admiration of Rose, proudly introducing her to others as his "bride of 60 years."

During the early years of their marriage, Larry supported his young family by working up to three jobs at a time, including roofing, driving a cotton picker, retail sales and rebuilding cars. He began a career at Central Power & Light in Port Isabel, Texas. It was there that he used his spare time to turn his love of cars and drag racing into a community of friends that he has cherished for over 50 years. He founded the Rust City Racers in Port Isabel and later became an active member of the Roswell Drag Racing Association. He was highly successful in competitive drag racing for decades. Over the years, he proudly mentored many friends and family members in the sport, even after he was no longer physically able to compete.

Larry’s talent wasn't only on the track. He was also a successful businessman with a remarkable work ethic and a determination to do things the right way. He managed numerous C. R. Anthony's department stores in Texas, Colorado, California and New Mexico. He and Rose went on to own and operate Big O Tires stores in Roswell, Artesia and Clovis, New Mexico, as well as El Paso, Texas. His entrepreneurial spirit, strong leadership and dedication to excellence were evident in everything he pursued. Larry believed in working hard, treating others with respect and taking pride in a job well done. These were values he not only lived by but also worked to instill in those around him.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Larry was always very community minded. He participated in numerous civic organizations, including the Roswell Chamber of Commerce Red Coats. He sat on several boards and committees through the years. He coached Little League baseball, and he was even a volunteer firefighter for a few years. He was the very definition of a good neighbor, always ready with a smile and a wave, willing to help anyone in any way he could. Though he seldom allowed himself much leisure time other than drag racing, Larry treasured the rare opportunities to fish and relax in Red River, New Mexico, a cherished family tradition.

Above all, Larry was a man of strong faith and deep devotion to his family and his Lord Jesus Christ. He believed in living with integrity, honoring his word and standing firm in his convictions. No matter how demanding his business ventures became, his family always came first. He placed great importance on respect, loyalty and standing by those he loved. Larry's strength was rooted in his faith, and he sought to lead by example, leaving his family with a lasting foundation of love, hard work and steadfast values. His greatest accomplishments were not measured by the businesses he built, but by the family he loved and his legacy of faith, integrity and commitment.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 60 years, Rose Loftin; his children, Connie Walther of Abernathy, Bonnie Hixson and husband Chris of Liberty Hill, Michael Loftin and wife Amy of Lubbock and Daniel Delgado and wife Mari of Odessa; nine grandchildren, Justin, Kayleigh, Ryan, Sidney, Jadon, Cooper, Cruz, Ben and Victor; and two great-grandchildren, Emberleigh and Pierce. He is also survived by his siblings, Sherry Fies, Sandy Bray, Gary DeIorio, Vic DeIorio, Ann Ball, Cindy Whitten and Kenny Keenan; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Barbara Loftin and Rozelle and Raymond DeIorio; and three siblings, Kim Seidel, Robert Keenan and Keith Keenan.

Services are scheduled for 3:00 pm, Friday, November 6, 2026 at Combest Family Memorial Chapel with graveside to follow at Peaceful Gardens Memorial Park.