May 6, 1938 – April 18, 2025
Vernon ‘Larry’ Lawrence Hammersley passed away peacefully on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the
age of 86.
Born on May 6, 1938, in Alexandria, Indiana, to Vernon Hammersley and Stella Beasley Hammersley, Larry was raised in Williams, Indiana, and graduated with the Class of 1956 from Williams High School. Larry was a man of intellect, curiosity, and perseverance. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Purdue University in 1961 and later pursued a Master of Science in Chemistry from Indiana University in 1975. These academic achievements marked the beginning of a 40-year career in civil service as an analytical and physical chemist at NSWC Crane, where his dedication to science left a lasting impact.
A man of deep faith, Larry was a devoted Christian and a longtime member of the Oolitic Church of Christ. He served faithfully as a mentor, teacher, and song leader, offering care and compassion to all. Even into his later years, he could often be found visiting the sick, the elderly, and those in long-term care, serving others with humility, grace, and unwavering kindness.
Vibrant interests and an adventurous spirit also marked Larry’s life. A dedicated long-distance runner, he became a familiar sight on the roads between Avoca and Bedford. He was a passionate amateur radio operator (WA9FFZ) and active member of the Hoosier Hills Ham Club. He proudly traced his heritage as a member of the Sons of the American Revolution (#155222), and his love of storytelling led him to become a published author of several science fiction and romance novels.
Above all, Larry was a man of commitment and love. He married the love of his life, Louella Sue Hardwick, in December 1962, and together they shared 61 beautiful years. Sue preceded him in death on October 28, 2024, as did their daughter, Tisha, grandson Ryatt Lewis, two half-brothers, John and Bob Hammersley, and his half-sister and brother-in-law, Mary Alice and Herb Shoemaker.
His devoted family survives Larry: his son Eric Hammersley and wife Jennifer of Monument, Colorado, and their children Chase, Alexa, Amelia, Miles, and Kenna; his daughter Lisa Lewis and husband Rhett of Bloomington, Indiana; his daughter-in-law Sandra Hammersley and her and Eric’s children Chandler and Renae of Bedford, Indiana; and grandson Townes Ricketts, whom Larry and Sue lovingly helped raise, son
of Lisa and Mike Ricketts of Terre Haute.
Larry will be remembered for his quiet strength, humble spirit, profound wisdom, and unwavering love for his family, church, and community. His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched and the example he set through a life well-lived.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Cresthaven Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Cresthaven Memory Gardens. Visitation will be on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Cresthaven Funeral Home.
In Lieu of Flowers: Larry’s deep commitment to others was perhaps most clearly expressed through his unwavering dedication to donating blood. Throughout his life, he gave an incredible 29 gallons, always striving toward his personal goal of 30. Though he fell just short, you can help him cross that finish line. In Larry’s memory, we invite you to give the gift of life by donating blood. Your donation can not only honor his legacy but also save lives, just as he did so many times. To find a blood drive near you, visit the Red Cross website.
Condolences may be shared at www.cresthavenfh.com.
