Larry Wayne Self

DYER CHAPEL-Bro. Larry Wayne Self, 82, passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. He was born on October 9, 1944, in Dekalb County, Tennessee.

Bro. Self will be remembered for a life of Christian service and faithful ministry to others. He was the Co-Founder and Director of the Cookeville Rescue Mission from 1976 until 2014, a work that reflected his compassion and commitment to helping those in need. For 38 years, he also shared his message through a radio ministry on WJLE Smithville KOK Radio, reaching listeners with encouragement and faith. His ministry extended into many parts of the community through his service as a chaplain at Cookeville Regional Medical Center, as well as through jail ministry, hospice ministry, and the Good News Club for Kids. Across the years, these efforts became a lasting testimony to a life devoted to serving God and caring for people. Bro. Larry liked to read, kayaking, spending time with family and friends and several community activities.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Dean Jones Self of Cookeville, with whom he shared a marriage that began on November 22, 1961. Together they built a family that was a source of great love and pride. He is also survived by his children: Larry W. Self, Jr. of Hawaii; Shane Self and his wife, Tenessa, of Cookeville; Patsy Hamby and her husband, William, of Sunbright, Tennessee; Sandra Redmond and her husband, Bobby, of Cookeville; and Connie Poston and her husband, Billy, of Livingston.

His memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren, Chelsea Poston, Lance Poston and his wife, Brooke, Ashley Self, Jordan Self, Katie Self, and Adyson Self; and by his great-grandchildren, Emery Poston, Avery Poston, Jace Wiggins, Jayden Self, Ryder Vaughn, and Wesley Self. The love he gave to his family and the example he set through his faith and service will remain with them always.

He was preceded in death by his father, Troy William Self; his mother, Minnie Gertrude Denny Self; his granddaughters, Savannah Buckley and Brittany Self; his brothers, Sam Denny, Roy Self, Tommy Self, and Jimmy Self; and his sister, Irene Bain.

A memorial service will be held at Wilhite Baptist Church, date and time to be announced.

Larry Wayne Self leaves behind a legacy of ministry, compassion, and devotion to family. His life touched many people through decades of service, and he will be remembered with love, gratitude, and deep respect.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Cookeville Rescue Mission, 1331 S. Jefferson Ave. Cookeville, TN 38506 c/o Will Roberts.

Dyer Chapel Hooper-Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements (931)526-7158. You may share condolences and memories at www.dyerfh.com