Larry Dean Tester

Larry Dean Tester, age 88, of Rush Branch Road, Sugar Grove, went home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday evening, October 12, 2025 at Watauga Medical Center.  Born March 22, 1937 in Watauga County, he was the son of Ted Woodrow and Edith Anderson Tester.  Larry  honorably served from 1955 until 1959 in the United States Air Force as an airplane mechanic and  retired from Skyline Telephone Company.  All who were acquainted with Larry knew of his love for sports and that he was the most dedicated fan of the Atlanta Braves.  He dearly loved all his family and had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, daughter-in-law and his two sons-in-law.

Larry is survived by his son, Doug Tester and wife Greta, of Zionville and daughters, Debbie Reese and husband, Butch, and Paula Hall and husband, Ron, all of Vilas; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren and cousins and special friends Hal Anderson and Mildred Glenn.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lee Winebarger Tester; and an infant brother.

Graveside services for Larry Tester will be conducted Thursday afternoon, October 16th, at 2 o’clock at the Tester Family Cemetery on Rush Branch Road, officiated by Preacher Butch Reese and Pastor David Ward.  Military Honors will be provided by the American Legion Post 130.  The family will receive friends Wednesday evening, October 15th, from 6 until 7:30 at Austin & Barnes. 

The family suggests memorials may be made to the Lewis Hal Anderson Jr.  Scholarship Fund, in care of Hal Anderson, 347 Hodges Gap Road, Boone, NC 28607

Online condolences may be shared with the family online at austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Tester family.

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