‘Passionate and relentless.’ Lexington funeral to honor retired prosecutor Ray Larson

Services have been set for Ray Larson, who worked as a prosecutor in Kentucky for more than 30 years, as an outpouring of tributes continued on social media.

According to Milward Funeral Directors, a Larson’s visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, and his funeral will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, both at Lexington’s Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Betty Helburn Larson; his son, David and his wife, Amelie; and three grandchildren.

Former Kentucky Gov. Steven Beshear posted on Facebook that he and Larson, 77, were fraternity brothers at the University of Kentucky, they worked together while Beshear was attorney general and Larson’s wife, Betty, taught the Beshears’ sons at Lexington’s Cassidy Elementary. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family. Rest In peace, Ray,” Beshear said.

Larson was appointed Fayette County commonwealth’s attorney in 1985 and went on to win five six-year terms. Prior to his tenure in Lexington, Larson worked as an assistant deputy attorney general. His vast prosecutorial experience and personal touch were remembered by many in the legal community in Kentucky and other states.

“He treasured the relationships he built with his colleagues, and he viewed the team as members of his family. Ray believed in justice and accountability. He strove to ensure that everyone be treated fairly and under the same rules,” Larson’s obituary said.

Kentucky’s Transportation Secretary Jim Gray tweeted, “Ray Larson represented everything that was praiseworthy in a public servant. He was passionate and relentless. He fought for what he believed was right, especially for the victims of crime. He and his vigorous, passionate voice will be missed.”

Linda Tally Smith of Union, Ky., posted on Facebook, “I was privileged to have him as a mentor and friend since 1992, and he was always there for me when I needed help with the hard stuff. Which, believe me, was often. He was a practical, intellectual and moral compass to all of us for so long that it’s hard to imagine life without that resource. Finally, and most importantly, he was one of a handful of men in my life who was more of a father figure to me than my own ever was. And I praise God for him.”

David Flatt of Grayson, Ky., tweeted, “Sad to hear of the death of former Fayette Comm. Atty. Ray Larson. He helped me as a young Comm Atty and became a good friend through the years. A tireless advocate for victims and adequate funding for prosecutors. Rest in Peace, my friend.”

A former assistant commonwealth’s attorney and current Florida prosecutor, Jenna McNeal Cassady, posted on Facebook, “Ray Larson met me when I was a social work undergrad student/recovering victim of crime. He quite abruptly told me I was meant to do something with my experience, then helped me find a way to do it. Certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without him. And I know there are many who say the same!! His loss hits hard. We love and miss you Ray!”

Larson was “a eucharistic minister” and taught the high school Sunday School class at Good Shepherd for more than 30 years, according to his obituary.

Ray’s three grandchildren “were the greatest joy of his life, and he enjoyed buying them candy and LEGOs whenever they wanted.”

In lieu of flowers, the family asked that contributions go to the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass, Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, or Camp Horsin’ Around. Those who attend the visitation and funeral were encouraged to “adhere to whatever personal safety protocols and guidelines are currently in place for public gatherings.”