Obituary

Larry Bickham

December 29, 1954 - January 21, 2026

Larry Bickham was born on December 29, 1954, to the late Marvin Bickham, Sr. and Christella Bickham. On January 21, 2026, he peacefully transitioned from this life at his home.

Larry was truly one of a kind. He loved to sing and had an infectious laugh that could brighten any room. Known by many as a smooth and cool guy, Larry had a way of making people feel at ease and welcome in his presence. His smile and spirit will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved him. Although he enjoyed spending time with his few close buddies, Larry especially treasured his quiet, peaceful moments at home. You could often find him sitting on the back porch, sipping coffee or reading, enjoying the simple comforts of life. He had a deep love for words and expressions, often using a few unique ones that never failed to make his family chuckle. Larry was also a self-taught guitarist. Despite his talent, he rarely played for others, always insisting his skills were “rusty.” His humility was just another part of what made him so special.

A proud graduate of Central Memorial High School, Class of 1972, Larry continued his education after high school by attending business college in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He went on to spend much of his life as a hardworking man, holding several jobs throughout the years, including bus driver for Bogalusa City Schools, employee at Gaylord Box Plant, First State/Hibernia Bank, and later served faithfully as a custodian for the Washington Parish School System until his health began to decline.

In December of 1974, Larry married DeElla Magee, and to this union, one daughter, Christie, was born. Later in 1995, he married Diane Moses.

Even after battling a stroke and facing health challenges of his own, Larry’s heart for family never wavered. During his mother’s health decline, he moved in to help care for her, a true reflection of his selflessness and quiet strength.

Larry leaves to cherish his precious memories: his two daughters, Christie (Maurice) Mark and Anecia Short, both of Bogalusa, LA; one sister, Dorothy Maye of Bogalusa, LA; one brother, Calvin Bickham of Covington, LA; four beloved grandchildren, Christina Bickham of Covington, LA, Kendralia McCray, Kenneth McCray, Jr., and Jonayah Bullard, all of Bogalusa, LA; six great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Bickham, Sr. and Christella Bickham James; two brothers, Marvin Bickham, Jr. and Billy Wayne Bickham; and one sister, Railey Marie Peters.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Larry has answered the Lord’s call. He now rests from his labor, free from pain, and reunited with loved ones who have gone before him. His memory will live on in our hearts forever, and his legacy of love, laughter, humility, and resilience will continue through generations.

Larry's visitation will be 3:00PM-6:00PM Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Crain and Sons Funeral Home. The funeral will be 1:00PM Friday, January 30, 2026 at Crain and Sons Funeral Home in Bogalusa, LA