Larry Edward Ellis, affectionately known by family and friends as Pumpkin, passed away unexpectedly on 03/12/2026.

Born on January 2, 1956 to Claiborn and Mary Ellis in Durham NC. Pumpkin spent the first few years of his life at home with his parents and siblings. He enjoyed his childhood with many adventures, laughter and lots of love. He has been a resident of Murdoch Development Center since January 10, 1967.

Larry has had a full and enjoyable life at MDC enjoying the love, kindness, attentiveness and compassion of his entire care team. While time was spent learning new tasks and maintaining those skills, Larry had so many wonderful memories made at MDC.  Enjoying a special treat of ice cream, going on outings into the community whether it was shopping, eating at a restaurant. or going on a van ride to the lake all were part of the things he loved the most. Larry's most favorite thing was rocking. He would sit in his specially made rocker and rock for hours on end if he was given the opportunity. Larry loved music and would turn his head sideways as he listened intently. In his younger days you could find him in his room at Murdoch with a huge smile on his face along with a radio glued to his ear as he enjoyed the vibrations from the sounds on his face.

For each person over the years that took the time to love on our Pumpkin, we wish we could give you each a big hug and a personal thank you. Your love exceeds the boundaries of Murdoch and is felt in every family member who is not able to care for their loved one at home. Thank you for stepping in and being there.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation to Murdoch Development Center Chaplin division.

A graveside service will be held on Friday March 20, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Park.