Larry Lee Putnam

Larry Lee Putnam, 78, passed away peacefully at his home on April 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous three-year battle with cancer and heart failure.

Larry was born on November 1, 1947, in Lenoir, North Carolina, to the late Lee Norris Putnam and Thelma Mable Sides Putnam.

A lifelong member of the furniture industry, Larry dedicated his career to craftsmanship and leadership. He worked in the furniture industry at FrameMakers, Crestline, and Hickory Hill. He has spent the last 18 years at Kellex Seating where he served as supervisor of the machine room, spring-up, clamp room and finishing rooms. In addition to his work there, he proudly owned and operated Putnam Wood Products for 53 years, building not only furniture but a legacy of hard work, commitment, and integrity.

Above all, Larry loved his family. He found joy in the simple things—spending time fishing, relaxing at his lake house, and collecting old cars. Known for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and quiet strength, Larry was a man of few words, but when he spoke, people listened. He was fair, dependable, and generous to a fault—someone who would truly give the shirt off his back to help others.

Larry shared an extraordinary bond with his wife of 60 years, Judy Ann Putnam. They were truly inseparable and did everything together, building a life rooted in love, partnership, and unwavering devotion.

He is survived by his loving wife, Judy Ann Putnam; his daughter, Cheryl Putnam; his son, Larry Putnam and wife Jennifer; his grandchildren, Tyler Delay, Kyle Putnam, and Savannah Kent (husband JD Kent); and his great-granddaughter, Emery Delay. He is also survived by his sister Evelyn Haines of Philadelphia. He also leaves behind his loyal companion, his beloved dog Jake who would sit on the porch daily and wait for him to get home.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his brothers, Gene Putnam and Louis Putnam.

The family will receive friends from 2pm until 3pm Monday, April 6, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home. Graveside will be held immediately following at 3:30 at Burke Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Amorem Support in Valdese in honor of Larry’s memory.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Amorem Support in Valdese for their compassion, kindness, and unwavering care. Their support brought comfort and peace to both Larry and his family during a difficult time. A very special thank you is extended to his nurses, Heaven and Chelsey, whose gentle care, dedication, and genuine love meant more than words can express.

Larry’s family will love him and miss him every day and will carry his memory in their hearts forever. His lessons, love, and legacy will live on in all those he touched. He will never be forgotten.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.