Larry W. Mims (1964-2021)

MIMS

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 8/26/2021 at 13:47:31

LARRY WAYNE MIMS

Cedar Rapids

Larry Wayne Mims, 57, a father, a son, a brother and an uncle, passed away on Aug. 17, 2021. Survived by a family who loves him dearly, and friends who will forever cherish memories of his work ethic, fortitude, sense of humor and loyalty.

Larry was born in Vicksburg, Miss., on April 26, 1964. Larry grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where his mother, Bobbie and Father, Ben, raised seven children under one roof. With a home sharing Obie, Bruce, Ben, Barb, Ed and Mike, Larry soon developed a demeanor synonymous with words like intensity, competitiveness and loyalty.

Growing up, Larry attended Washington High School where he lettered in baseball and wrestling. Teammates, friends and family would describe Larry as someone with a relentless work ethic, and a dedicated teammate who worked to be the best he could be in all facets of the word competitor.

Larry was often described as small in stature when it came to professional baseball standards. It was through his determination and fearless competitive nature that Larry ultimately earned baseball scholarships to Indian Hills Junior College, and then the University of Nebraska. Larry excelled both in the classroom and on the field as a student athlete. As a result of his pursued excellence, and despite facing the odds, Larry was selected to the Major League Draft on five separate occasions. After playing multiple years in professional baseball, Larry continued a life in teaching family and countless youth, the importance of healthy competition utilizing positive self-image and visualization techniques.

After his professional baseball career, Larry became a Cedar Rapids Police Officer, and then spent over a decade working with the United Parcel Service. Larry remained steadfast to an ardent standard of excellence. Coworkers would continue to describe Larry as an ethical, kind, hardworking man who excelled quickly through a mindset unwavering to the idea of going above a beyond.

Outside of his personal and career accomplishments, Larry established his legacy with his life's love, Julie. With her, he is survived by three children, Larry Jr., Christina and Bobbi' along with four grandchildren, Izaya, Romy, Ezra and Nova. His legacy will forever be admired and cherished, aside stories of his relentless pursuit for his best self.

Going Home services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 28, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 2202 Forest Dr. SE, Cedar Rapids, with burial to follow in Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church on Saturday.

Larry will forever be missed, forever be loved, and forever be admired for the continuous love he provided and legacy he left through leading by example. We love you Dad.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.