Rev. Larry Bethards

Rev. Larry K. “Preach” Bethards, 78, passed away on Sept, 8, 2016, at home in Hamilton. A celebration of life service will be held Sept. 24, at 11 a.m. at the American Legion Post 222 in Hamilton.

Born in Wayne County, Iowa, he was the son of E.G. and Frances Mae Bethards. He served in the U.S. Army as a radio operator with decorations as a rifle sharpshooter. He dedicated his life to his ministry. He was a pastor of several churches throughout his lifetime. He was a member of the American Legion Post 222 in Hamilton and worked at Alexander Moulding Mill for 27 years. Preach will be remembered for his commitment to Jesus Christ and his love for his church and family. Preach was a loving husband, dad, papa, brother, uncle and son.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two wives, Doris and Clydell; his brothers, Dwayne and wife Delores and Junior; his sisters, Virgene and husband Jack, JoAnn and husband Frank Overman and baby sister; and great-nephews Aaron and Christopher Overman. Survivors include his wife, Frances Bethards; three step- children, whom he treated as his own, Richie Brewer of Waco, S.L. Brewer III of Hamilton and JoAnna Rogers of Waco; grandchildren Kailee, Kai, Cole, Raymond, Lizzie, Justin, Brittany, Merrissa and Chyann; great-grandchildren Keagin, PJ, Violet, Caleb, Riley and Talia; and several nieces and nephews including Richard and Kelly Overman and Ashlee and Isaac.

Memorial donations can be sent to U Matter Street Ministry or the Hope House in Hamilton.