Lawrence Ethelbah

In Loving Memory

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lawrence "Larry" Joseph Ethelbah, who passed away November 23, 2025, at the age of 86, just shy of his 87th birthday.

Larry and his twin brother, Jerry, were born on December 16th, 1938, the first twins born in the Whiteriver Hospital. He lived in Whiteriver, Arizona, with his parents, Catherine Ethelbah and Eugene Ethelbah, until he was 5 years old, when he was taken to various boarding schools, until he rejoined his family in McNary Arizona, during his high school years.

Larry went to Haskell Indian School and got a bachelor's degree in science. He worked in the National Guard at Ft Huachuca, Arizona. He retired from the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Alaska, after 30 years of service as an Environmental Advocate for Alaskan Natives.

Larry returned home to Whiteriver, Arizona and worked in Forestry and his own construction/forestry business, Ethelbah Enterprises. Larry was known for his dedication to the environment, and his love for family, friends, and community. Throughout his life, he demonstrated a zest for life that inspired everyone around him. Larry found joy in hard work, hunting, outdoors, and he had an insatiable love for dancing to live bands all over the mountain. Larry could be found 7 days a week, dancing the night away.

Lawerence is survived by his son, Harley Ethelbah; his grandchildren, Elsa Ethelbah and Rhys Ethelbah; his brother, Upton Ethelbah, Sr,; his many cousins, nieces, and nephews, as well as countless friends, who will miss his upbeat spirit and wisdom.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Catherine and Eugene Ethelbah; his brothers, Jerry Ethelbah and Eugene Ethelbah Jr; his sister, Anita Ethelbah; and countless aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 4th, at Owens Livingston Mortuary in Show Low, AZ, with a viewing one hour prior to the funeral service.

Larry will be deeply missed but fondly remembered. May his legacy of love for the environment, dancing, hunting, family and friends continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.