ROGERS — James Larry Gershner,

79, born Oct. 27, 1940, passed away Oct. 5, 2020, in Rogers, Ark.

Larry was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Rogers. He attended Arkansas Tech University, earned a degree in education, and was an all-conference football player. He later went on to pursue a master’s degree in education from Arkansas State University.

Larry began his career as a coach in Dardanelle, Ark., and ended his coaching career in DeValls Bluff, Ark. He continued to serve the community in DeValls Bluff as the principal and superintendent of the school system for many years, devoting a total of 35 years to public education.

He enjoyed the outdoors, but was most passionate about the success of past students. During his life, he loved making kids smile with his jokes, as well as, to guide and mentor them so they could make a difference in their own lives. He leaves a legacy of making people a priority through his time, talent, and energy.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn and his father, Leon Gershner Sr.

He is survived by wife Caroline Gershner of Rogers; daughter Kim Swieter of Rogers; son Greg Gershner and wife Janet of Fort Smith; and brother Leon Gershner Jr. and wife Vicki Gershner of Roland, Ark. His retirement years were spent as he lived his life, focused on his two grandsons, Grant Gershner (Ashley) of San Antonio, Texas, and Stone Swieter of Rogers.

Arrangements are in the care of Rollins Funeral Home. Due to the covid pandemic, there will be a private visitation for the family. A memorial service and burial will be held in Missouri at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Larry’s honor to the Rogers Humane Society, 407 C. Nursery Road, Rogers, Ark., 72758, or Micha’s House, 1110 Elm St., Rogers, Ark., 72756. Online condolences can be made at www.rollinsfuneral.com .