Lifetime resident of Sayre, Oklahoma, Larry Don Dunlap passed from this life on Thursday, December 22, 2022 at the age of 70 years, 11 months, and 19 days. Larry was born January 3, 1952 in Sayre, Oklahoma to his parents Marvin and Allene (Lynn) Dunlap. Larry attended all twelve years of school at Sayre graduating in 1970. Larry married Melva Dawn Dodson on January 7, 1977 in Cheyenne, Oklahoma.

Larry began his working career at C.R. Anthony and then went to the oilfield for a short time. In 1983, Larry went to work for the Oklahoma Department of Public Transportation preparing roads, bridges, and underpasses and other necessary roadways the general public depends on. Larry was directing highway traffic on August 31, 2007 near Elk City when he was hit by a speeding vehicle knocking him 71 feet breaking many bones in his body. Transported by med-flight and ambulance to OU Medical Center where he was placed in the Trauma Care Unit then released to Jim Thorpe Rehab Center where he spent the rest of his rehab.

Gov. Brad Henry signed House Bill 2474, also known as the Larry Dunlap bill into law on August 22, 2008 authored by Rep. Purcy Walker and Senator Tom Ivestor. The bill outlines stiffer penalties for motorists endangering the lives of highway workers in construction zones.

Larry had new adjustments to make and could never return to work. Larry was an avid OU fan and loved to watch sports, fish, garden, and take care of the dachshund dogs they dearly loved. He and Melva also loved to travel.

Larry is survived by his brother, Leroy and wife, Peggy of Sayre, OK; 2 sisters, Kay Akers and husband, Steve, Oklahoma City, OK, and Phyllis Hamm, Wichita, KS; 7 nephews, Dale Dunlap and wife, Sherrie, Darren Dunlap and wife, Karley, Mark Dunlap and Christy, Shawn Dunlap, and Donnie Hamm  and wife, Amy; 1 niece, Kristina Weise and husband, Mike. Several great nephews and nieces. Also a special friend and caregiver, Jim Bland.

Preceding Larry in death was his parents, wife, Melva, one brother, Curtis Dunlap and one niece, Tandra Ray Dunlap.