Larry Bernard Rollins
September 16, 1951 – April 21, 2025

Larry Bernard Rollins, a devoted family man, proud veteran, and accomplished aerospace engineer, passed away on April 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas. He was 73.

Born on September 16, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, Larry lived a life marked by kindness, intelligence, humor, and unwavering love for his family. He served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and went on to dedicate 26 years of service to NASA, where he worked as a test conductor for the Space Shuttle Program and later became a software manager—contributing to the advancement of space exploration with dedication and brilliance.

Larry was a man of deep faith and an active member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church, where he served on the parish council. He was also a proud 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus, where he held the positions of Grand Knight and District Deputy. He gave countless hours to volunteer work, always ready to help those in need and serve his community.

He was a skilled handyman who could fix almost anything, and his calming presence had a way of making everyone around him feel at ease. Larry was also a gifted cellist—so talented, in fact, that he earned a scholarship to the prestigious Juilliard School. He was once part of the All-City Chicago Orchestra and carried his love for music throughout his life. He also had a passion for cooking and delighted in preparing delicious meals for his family.

Above all, Larry was a wonderful provider who loved his wife and children more than anything in the world. He built a life centered on love, faith, and dedication, creating a strong, supportive home filled with laughter, warmth, and unforgettable memories. He cherished every moment spent with his wife Mary, with whom he shared 46 beautiful years and 38 years of marriage.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Linean and Willis Rollins; his siblings Jack Rollins, Jacqueline Rollins, and Barbara Pinkney; and his daughter Tracy Snow.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Rollins; his children: Lance Rollins, Natalie Rollins, and Larry (Saveth) Rollins II; his son-in-law George Castillo Jr., who was like a son to him; his daughter-in-law Emily Giffin, whom he loved dearly; his siblings Linda Philpot, Renee Rollins, and Tommy Rollins; and his cherished grandchildren: Sophia, Lucille, Mekkayla, and Nasir Rollins. He shared a particularly special bond with his granddaughters Sophia and Lucille, whom he loved deeply and who brought him endless joy.

He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Russell (Penny Kipley) Merkel, and sister-in- law, Salli (Scott) Kuncewicz, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins, with whom he created countless memories and shared enduring bonds. His love extended to dear family friends, the Sherif family, who were like family to him and held a special place in his heart.

Larry leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, service, and devotion. He gave all of himself until the very end—always with the goal of making his family happy and proud. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. with a memorial service held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 9th, 2025, at Crowder Funeral Home in Pearland, 2422 East Broadway Pearland, TX 77581. Father Bob Barras to officiate.

In honor of Larry’s life donations may be made to St. Jude or The Cancer Research Institute.