MANTLE DIES AT 79
Larry Mantle, the youngest brother of Hall of Fame baseball star Mickey Mantle, died Monday
Larry Mantle, the youngest brother of Hall of Fame baseball star Mickey Mantle, died Monday morning in his Fresno, California, home. He was 79.
A long time teacher and coach in Oklahoma, Larry spent 50 years coaching high school football, including winning the 1977 state championship at Cashion. He became the school's all-time wins leader. He is also Cordell's all-time wins leader.
Larry also coached at Northwest Classen, Velma-Alma and Cyril, becoming known as an innovator with passheavy offenses. He also coached six-man football in Texas.
He finished his career with more than 190 wins.
Larry grew up in Commerce a nd would often spend summers in New York with his famous brother. Larry ultimately played college basketball at Moberly Junior College for legendary coach Cotton Fitz simmons. Larry also later played at Central State University before joining the Navy.
He then embarked on his coaching career.
He spent the later part of his life teaching General Education Development at the Lawton Correctional Facility. Last year, he moved to Fresno.
Larry's wife of 52 years, Linda Lea, died 16 months ago. He is survived by his sister Barbara Shuck-DeLise of Del City, two sons Garrette Mantle of Fresno and Kelly Mantle of Los Angeles, daughter-in-law Pamela Burke Mantle and two grandchildren Matthew and Skyler Mantle.
A private service f or immediate family will be held in Fresno.