Dr. Larry Heard

Dr. Larry Heard, 86, of Amarillo, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2025. Celebration of Life Services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, June 14, 2025 at First Baptist Church Sanctuary, 1208 S. Tyler St. with Dr. Howard Batson officiating.

Larry was born September 8, 1938 in Olney, Texas to Rel and Louise Heard. He graduated from Whitharral High School before obtaining his Bachelor degree from Hardin-Simmons University. Larry was called to serve the Lord in ministry, and continued on to earn both his Master’s degree and his Doctorate in Ministry from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Larry married Ann Bozeman on December 16, 1960 in Abilene and they began their life together, raising three children, Rick, James and Amy in Idalou, Texas. While in still college, Larry pastored Rockdale Baptist Church, part-time. Larry pastored churches all over West Texas, including Wellman, Matador, Bovina and Idalou. He then became the Director of Missions in Pampa for the next 20 years, serving 90 churches in this capacity. He and Ann have been active members of First Baptist Church of Amarillo for the past 18 years, since moving to Amarillo.

Larry was a faithful man of God who had a heart for missions, first and foremost. He loved working alongside pastors. He challenged people throughout his life to read the Bible through every year. Second only to his love for Jesus Christ, was Larry’s undying love and devotion to his family. He valued any time he could spend with them. He was so thankful for his family and so giving to them. Larry always had a smile; he was quick-witted and enjoyed banter.

In his spare time, Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing golf. He generally loved being outdoors in God’s creation. He and Ann travelled extensively to all seven continents, all 50 states, and over 30 countries, many of which were on the mission field, which Larry loved the most. Larry will be greatly missed by his family, friends and community.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Rick Heard; a grandson, Jack Steele; and a granddaughter, Trinity Heard.

Survivors include his wife, Ann Heard; a son, James Heard and wife Mindy of League City, TX; a daughter, Amy Steele and husband Chris of Olympia, WA; a daughter-in-law, Karen Heard of Weatherford, TX; a sister, Pat Blair of Levelland, TX; and seven grandchildren, Jessica Heard, Scott Vaughan and wife Hannah, Bryce Vaughan, Kenzi Heard, Sage Heard, Liv Steele and Nora Steele.

The family suggests memorials donations may be made to The International Commission, at www.internationalcommission.org, 260 Continental Dr. Lewisville, TX 75067.