Larry Ray Bundridge

Wood River: Larry Ray Bundridge, 71, passed away at his favorite time of day, sunset on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at Christian Northeast Hospital. He was born on June 2, 1949, in Alton, the son of the late Kenneth and Melba Bundridge. He married to his beloved Nancy Lynn (Hanlon) on July 3, 1986, in Alton, and she survives. Other survivors include a son and daughter in law: Jake and Jessica Bundridge of Wood River, three grandchildren: Aidan (Big Ad), Adaline Rose, Jackson(Action), his most favorite sister and her husband: Janelle and David Rice of Roxana, more than a nephew: Nick Rice and his family, his uncle/brother: Richard and Janie Street and his aunt: Peggy Wood. Larry graduated from East Aton – Wood River High School when according to him, the school still played real football against real schools. He proudly served in the United States Army overseas in the Vietnam War. He was a lifetime member of the Wood River VFW Post # 2859, where the barstools were sacred ground, reserved for Veterans. He was also a member of the East Alton American Legion #794. Though he spent a lifetime working, to anyone that knew him well, knew that he was best at being retired. He was an avid believer in a religion, and that religion was that of thoroughbred horse racing. Christmas day itself was no more holy than the first Saturday in May: The Kentucky Derby. As “My Old Kentucky Home” would play, Larry stood at attention, paying tribute to the beautiful history and mystic of what he believed to be the most special day the year. Also, music was not just a passion for Larry, but a lifelong friend to celebrate any occasion with. He would play his beloved blues harmonica with any band, no matter how famous or small they may be. It did not matter; his confidence would never waver enough to not ask to “sit in” with the band. This unwavering confidence even gained the attention of a few famous friends along the way: Carlos Santana and basketball legend Bill Walton. Hunting, fishing, and sports were a constant companion in Larry’s life. A passion he passed on to his sons and family. Larry lived a life that most film studios would struggle to find the budget to produce, but the love he shared as a Father, Grandfather, and Friend will live on forever. “Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die” In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a beloved eldest son: Daniel Joseph Bundridge and his sister in law: Patricia Tomblingson. In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 3pm to 8pm on Wednesday, January 27, 2021, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Graveside services will be held at 11am on Thursday, January 28, 2021, at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey with full military rites by the Ritual Team of VFW Post 1308 of Alton. Current Covid 19 restrictions will be strictly followed and face masks will be required. Immediately following will be a celebration at the Wood River VFW. Memorials are suggested to the Salvation Army and The Kentucky Horse Park.