Obituaries

View livestreamed service here.

Lawrence “Larry” Hitchens, a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and friend, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 13, at the age of 78. 

Born in Philadelphia and raised in Warminster, Pennsylvania, Larry built a life guided by faith, learning, and service. He graduated from William Tennent High School, where he met the love of his life, the late Janis McLeish. Their high school romance grew into a marriage that spanned 56 wonderful years, beginning on September 6, 1969. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, devotion, and family.

Larry attended Geneva College, where he studied mathematics, before answering a calling to ministry. He earned his Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and later completed his Doctor of Ministry at McCormick Theological Seminary. His ministry led him across the country, serving congregations in New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. Wherever he served, Larry shared compassion, wisdom, humor, and steadfast faith that touched countless lives.

Larry is survived by his three daughters and their spouses, Christi and Mark Hilton, Cortney and Graham Williams, and Kati and Caleb Rankin. He was a proud and devoted “G-Pop” to Luke (and Allie) Hilton, Parker (and Daisy) Williams, Sara Williams, Evan and Mason Williams, and Evy and Jack Rankin. Few things brought him more joy than watching his children become parents, his grandchildren grow, and celebrating life’s milestones with those he loved. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Hitchens; his sister, Cheryl Behany, and her husband, Bill; and several beloved nieces and nephews. 

To his family and friends, Larry was a source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. He made people feel valued, whether through a thoughtful conversation, a well-timed story, or words of encouragement. He loved woodworking and creating lasting gifts for his family, or doing so alongside his grandchildren, showing them how to use the big tools. Larry and Jan shared a lifelong love for animals, opening their home to many cherished birds, cats, and dogs over the years. He was rarely seen without his favorite turquoise accessories or his signature oversized cross necklace, and was known as a loyal Wheel of Fortune fan; Larry never missed an episode and was thrilled at the opportunity to audition for his favorite show.

Larry will be remembered for his faith, generosity, craftsmanship, stories, and remarkable ability to connect with others. If you needed help, advice, a recommendation, or simply a friendly conversation, Larry was the guy—or he knew a guy. Though he will be missed beyond measure, his family finds comfort in knowing that the faith he preached throughout his life has become his eternal reality.

Memorial service to be held at Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church, 3901 North Star Rd., Richardson, Texas  75082, June 26, 2026 at 3p.  The service will be livestreamed.  See link above.  In lieu of flowers the family has requested gifts to Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church Community Aid Fund or the Wings of Love Parrot Sanctuary.