Larry Davis Friday

Larry Davis Friday, Sr. passed away July 21, 2026 at the age of 79. He was born September 30, 1946 to the late Irwin Davis Friday and Elizabeth Estelle Lockhart Friday.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Norma Dale Friday-Mallett; sisters-in-law, Susan Strickland Rigsby and Kay Strickland (Don) Tubb.

Larry’s story began in Selma, Alabama, where he forged a path of dedication and achievement. He graduated from Parish High School in Selma in 1965, a milestone that marked the beginning of a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and service. Larry’s academic journey continued at The University of Alabama, where he became a proud alumnus, echoing his love for the Crimson Tide. His thirst for learning was unyielding: he later earned a Masters degree in Criminal Justice from Troy University in Montgomery, followed by a Jurist Doctorate from Jones Law School in Montgomery.

After his undergraduate studies, Larry committed himself to serving his country. He spent four years in the United States Air Force, demonstrating courage, integrity, and an unwavering devotion to duty. The character and discipline he cultivated during his military service became hallmarks of his professional and personal life.

Larry’s professional dedication was extraordinary. Over forty-two years, he worked both for The City of Selma and Dallas County, Alabama as an environmentalist, devoting himself to his community until his well-earned retirement in 2019. Larry’s tireless efforts were not limited to government service; he imparted wisdom to students as he taught criminal justice courses at Wallace Community College–Selma for a time, furthering his impact on those around him.

Beyond his career, Larry lived fully and embraced the joys of life. In his younger years, he found happiness in hunting—a pastime that brought him close to nature and offered camaraderie and reflection. Larry’s love for his alma mater was steadfast; he delighted in Alabama football games, cheering passionately for the Crimson Tide, his spirit echoing in every victory and loss.

Some of Larry’s fondest memories were made on the sunlit shores of Gulf Shores. He treasured these getaways, finding peace and happiness amidst gentle waves and golden sands. These moments are a testament to Larry’s appreciation for the simple pleasures that life could offer.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Shirley Strickland Friday; children, Paris Massey Friday, Dawson D. Friday, Larry Davis (Courtney) Friday, Jr. and Adam C. Friday; grandchildren, Jane Adele Friday and Alyson Donnelly "Alys" Friday; brother John D. (Judy) Friday; brothers-in-law, Joseph Rigsby and Bo (Ginger) Strickland and a host of nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be Monday, July 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home in Selma. Visitation will follow until 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Bob Armstrong officiating.