Larry Barnett Huntsville AL Obituary, Death: It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Barnett, the founder and heart of Larry’s Pistol and Pawn, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 26, 2025. Born on August 9, 1947, in Huntsville, Alabama, Larry was not only a pillar of the Huntsville and Madison communities but also a respected figure in the firearms and pawn industry.
He leaves behind a legacy of passion, hard work, and dedication that will continue to shape and guide the lives of all who were touched by his vision. Larry Barnett’s story is one of determination, vision, and deep-rooted love for his community. In 1975, with little more than a passion for firearms and a desire to create a space where people could responsibly enjoy and learn about them, Larry opened the doors of Larry’s Pistol and Pawn. From humble beginnings, his commitment to building a business that offered not just products, but education and community was apparent.
His vision was simple: to create a safe, trustworthy space where people of all walks of life could find firearms, pawn services, and guidance with the utmost professionalism and respect. Over the decades, Larry’s Pistol and Pawn grew from a small local shop to a cornerstone of Huntsville and Madison, a place where people came for much more than just business transactions. It was a place where people felt welcomed, educated, and respected. It became a community hub where customers could learn about safe firearm ownership, attend training courses, or simply ask questions in an environment free from judgment.
Larry’s profound belief in responsible firearm ownership, coupled with his warmth and generosity, made him an integral part of the community fabric. What set Larry apart was his knowledge, commitment, and unwavering support for his customers. Whether you were an experienced gun owner or someone looking for advice on responsible firearm ownership, Larry was always there with a helping hand. His customers trusted him not just for his expertise, but for his genuine care for their well-being.
Many who knew Larry would recall his personalized approach to service, taking the time to get to know each customer and ensuring that their needs were met. Larry was also known for his involvement in the firearms community beyond his business. His contributions to promoting safety and education were invaluable. Whether it was teaching gun safety classes, organizing local shooting events, or working closely with law enforcement to promote responsible firearm ownership, Larry was a tireless advocate for his beliefs.
He believed in the importance of building a culture of safety and respect around firearms, and he worked hard to instill these values in his customers, employees, and the broader community. His presence at Larry’s Pistol and Pawn was felt every day. He was often seen greeting customers, chatting with staff, and sharing his wealth of knowledge about firearms and pawn services. His leadership extended beyond just being a business owner; he was a mentor to many, someone who always made time to offer advice or lend an ear.
His integrity, humility, and work ethic became the foundation upon which his business flourished, and it is these qualities that will continue to guide his staff and loved ones in the years to come. While Larry’s professional accomplishments were immense, it was his character that truly defined him. He was a man of great integrity, kindness, and generosity. He treated every customer with respect, whether they were purchasing a high-end firearm or simply pawning a piece of family jewelry.
He never turned anyone away and always worked to find a solution that would help, whether it was through fair pricing, education, or simply lending a friendly ear. Larry’s heart extended beyond his business, too. He was known for his deep commitment to his family, his church, and his community. He was a generous supporter of local causes, often donating to charity events or quietly helping those in need. Larry’s belief in giving back was evident in the way he lived his life – always seeking to make the world a better place through small, everyday acts of kindness.
In addition to his love for his family and his community, Larry was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed spending time in nature, whether it was hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the beauty of Alabama’s countryside. His love of the outdoors aligned perfectly with his appreciation for responsible firearms use and his efforts to instill a deep respect for nature in those around him. As we mourn the loss of Larry Barnett, we also celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Barnett; his children, Matthew and Rachel Barnett; his grandchildren; and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and customers who regarded him as a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light. Larry’s passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy will continue to thrive through Larry’s Pistol and Pawn. The dedicated team Larry carefully trained over the years remains committed to upholding the values and principles he instilled in them. The community Larry built will continue to serve as a testament to his hard work and dedication.
His commitment to service, education, and the promotion of responsible firearm ownership remains an integral part of the business and will continue for years to come. Larry Barnett’s impact on the Huntsville and Madison communities is immeasurable. He was more than just a businessman; he was a mentor, a teacher, and a friend. Through his work, Larry fostered a sense of community, built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to safety and responsibility.
His contributions to local events, charitable causes, and his role as an advocate for responsible gun ownership will not be forgotten. While Larry’s physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the business he built, in the lives he touched, and in the memories of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and service, and it will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
Funeral arrangements for Larry Barnett are currently being made and will be announced in the coming days. We kindly ask for the privacy of the Barnett family to be respected during this time of mourning. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Huntsville Youth Shooting Sports Program, a cause close to Larry’s heart. Larry was always passionate about introducing young people to the values of discipline, respect, and responsibility that come with firearms training.
