Knoxville —
Larry Thomas Kirkwood, son of Thomas and Frances (Sherwood) Kirkwood, was born Oct. 4, 1943, in Knoxville. He attended the Knoxville schools, graduating with the Class of 1961. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City majoring in Philosophy. Larry received his master thesis at the University of Kansas with “Aesthetics the Philosophy of Art.” In 1972 he presented a show at UMKC and created works in conjunction with live theatre productions as well as an art show. His works were placed in public collection in the city hall of Kansas City.
Larry moved his studio to Florida, changing to silk screen works, and served as lecturer at the Atlantic University in West Palm Beach. In 1975 Larry was listed in Who’s Who in American Art. He presented a one person show at Indian River Community College in Fort Pierce, Fla. He was also listed with honors in the International Who’s Who in Cambridge, England. Larry taught silk screening in Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach, Fla.
Larry returned to Kansas City in 1991 to pursue his art career, this time creating a program of body imaging. He traveled throughout the United States, taking his works to colleges and universities, working with the art students and lecturing. His program of body imaging developed into a self-help program called: “Love your body and to be the best you can be as you are.” His program was well accepted by both faculty and students and he was invited to make return programs.
Larry was a lover of life. He had a ready smile and made friends easily. His heart was tender for animals and he had a pet since he was a small boy.
Larry’s health began to fail in March 2011. He developed COPD with complications. He put up a brave battle each day and showed his appreciation for those who cared for him at Griffin Care Center where he was a resident and where he passed away on Monday, Sept. 17, 2012.
Larry was preceded in death by his father Thomas Kirkwood.
Left to honor his memory are his mother Frances Kirkwood of Knoxville; his aunts Martha Shivvers, Nora Lee Ingle and Charlene Kirkwood; and many cousins and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 21, 2012, at the First United Methodist Church of Knoxville, with Pastors Lane Riggle, Brent Hanna and Cean Wilson officiating. Burial will follow services at Graceland Cemetery of Knoxville.
A memorial has been established to Hospice of Central Iowa or Knoxville Dollars for Scholars. Condolences may be sent to www.winfieldfh.com.
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