Larry James Pardue

Larry James Pardue, the sixth of eight children, was born to Earl Patrick Pardue and Elevelyn Redly Pardue on April 26, 1939, in Tenaha, Texas. At the age of ten, Larry moved to Houston, Texas. Upon moving to Houston, he became neighbors with the love of his life, Rodessa, on Des’ Chaumes Street in Fifth Ward. Larry attended schools in both the Tenaha and Houston Independent School Districts.

On October 24, 1958, Larry and Rodessa were joined in holy matrimony. To this union, seven children were born: Michael, Carlos, Larry Jr., Donald, Barry, Donna, and Richard. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, love, and service to others.

Larry accepted Christ at an early age and later strengthened his love and dedication to Christ under the leadership of Dr. Jerome Davis at Mount Moriah Baptist Church. He was an active member of the Prison Ministry, beginning his service at the Carol Young Prison, where he served as a fisher of men, ministering to and leading others to accept Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Larry understood that having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ was essential to living a meaningful life. His dedication to serving God and others led him to become a Deacon, an honor and responsibility he cherished deeply.

Larry was also a hardworking and dedicated provider. He worked for decades as a machinist, beginning his career in the machining industry at WKM Valve Division in Missouri City. He later worked for Ametek Texas Flange and eventually retired from Coffer Corporation after 20 years of dedicated service.

Larry was a true family man who valued staying connected with those he loved. Whether it was a Pardue or Neal family reunion, you could count on him being there. Like his wife, Rodessa, Larry believed strongly in education and generously opened his home to family members pursuing educational opportunities. His home was a secure and welcoming place for many. Though he was not rich in material possessions, Larry was abundantly rich in kindness, generosity, and unconditional love for his family.

Throughout Larry’s transition, he maintained an unwavering trust in God, continually acknowledging God’s goodness, grace, and mercy every step of the way. On September 9, 2026, Larry was rewarded for his faithfulness when he peacefully transitioned into God’s presence.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rodessa; his sons, Michael and Larry Jr.; his parents, Earl and Elevelyn Pardue; and his siblings, Earlean, William, Arnathaer, Madge, Robert, and Emma.

Larry leaves to cherish his memory of his daughter, Donna (Darryl); four sons, Carlos (Anitra), Donald (Rebecca), Barry, and Richard; sixteen grandchildren; and twenty great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Ray (Betty); sister-in-law, Freddie Mae Stephens; brother-in-law, Albert Neal, Tony Elders, a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

His life was a testament to faith, family, service, and love, and his legacy will continue to live on through the generations he leaves behind.