Lawrence "Larry" Pilarski

Lawrence "Larry" Pilarski, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on May 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 65 years old. Born on August 8, 1959, in Detroit, Michigan, Larry lived a full and vibrant life grounded in love, loyalty, and laughter.

Larry proudly served in the United States Army as a Military Police. A man who stood strong in his convictions, Larry was fiercely protective of his country, his friends, and most of all—his family. Larry had a strong work ethic and built a successful career through dedication and determination. He began his professional journey at AJM Packaging Corp, in Detroit, MI, starting in an entry-level position and steadily working his way to become a manager—a role he fulfilled with pride and responsibility. He finished his career with 20 years at Argos USA Cement Plant, in Atlanta, GA as Pack House Supervisor. His leadership, mentorship, and tireless commitment to his team left a lasting impact on everyone he worked with. He also had a passion for motorcycles and was an active member of the Atlanta Chapter HOG for several years. Larry generously gave his time as a dedicated moto crew volunteer for the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer Two-Day Walk for eight consecutive years. Larry was known for his quick wit and ability to make people laugh, often lighting up a room with a well-timed joke or playful remark. Whether fixing something around the house, offering sound advice, or sharing a story, he did it all with a heart full of love and a spirit that never seemed to tire.

Above all else, Larry was the proudest of his family. He leaves behind a large, blended, loving family that includes his devoted wife, Gladys Pilarski, his cherished children, Jason Pilarski (Tonya Pilarski), Joshua Pilarski (Jennifer Pilarski), Brandon Pilarski (Tiffany Pilarski), Bradley Pilarski (Rebecca Pilarski), Stephanie Ross (Michael Ross), step children Chelsea Gray (Jonathan Gray), Nathan Clifton (Kalinda Clifton), Justin Dunn (Julia Dunn), Katie Dunn-Smith (Matthew Smith), Sarah Tracy (Chandler Tracy), 22 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and many others who looked to him as a father figure. He is also survived by his brother, Tom Pilarski (Sabrina Pilarski). Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Jerome and Olive Arnold Pilarski, and his brothers, Richard and David Pilarski. Though his time here has ended, Larry’s legacy lives on in every story told, every laugh shared, and every ride taken down an open road in his memory.

Services to honor Larry's life will be held on May 17, 2025, at Appalachian Funeral Services in Sylva, North Carolina. Visitation will take place from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a memorial service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.