Lawrence “Larry” McGhie will be remembered as a beloved and devoted husband, father, and Papa. Larry passed into the loving arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in the presence of his wife, Lynn, and their two daughters, Erin (Michael) Handler of Franklin, TN and Kara (Mark) Larson of Libertyville, IL.

Born on July 13, 1943, in Chicago to John and Vera McGhie, Larry learned the value of hard work and dedication from an early age by watching his father, John (“Jack”), labor faithfully as a tool and die maker. While still in high school, Larry’s family moved from Chicago’s Near North Side to the developing suburban community of Deerfield, Illinois. There, alongside his older sister, June Jackson (who preceded him in death), and his younger brother, Wayne (Suzi) McGhie, Larry spent his formative years.

Despite the move, Larry returned to the city whenever he could, especially to attend youth group at Philadelphia Church in Chicago. It was there, as a teenager, that Larry formed two life-changing relationships. First, he committed his life to following Jesus. Second, he met Lynn Swanson. Their friendship grew to unwavering love within a close-knit group of friends over a decade. Larry was known for never making a quick decision! During those 10 years there were constant fun times of youth activities: basketball and baseball games, snow skiing, water skiing and more in Chicago and the surrounding areas.

Larry, determined and hard-working, put himself through college, often working multiple jobs, and became the first in his family to earn a degree, graduating from DePaul University.

On November 8, 1969, Larry and Lynn would marry and begin their life together as husband and wife. Their marriage would last 56 years and would include moves from Skokie to Des Plaines and eventually to a new house in Lake Zurich, which would be their home for 46 years and theplace where they would welcome and raise their two daughters.

Larry was a devoted and loving father; selfless, steady, and consistently present. His calm demeanor became a guiding force in his daughters’ lives, as he patiently offered wisdom, often through thoughtful questions and conversation that encouraged them to think deeply and grow confidently.

His steadiness extended beyond his family into his church and community. As a board member at Northwest Assembly of God, Mount Prospect, Larry helped guide the church through pivotal seasons, including pastoral transitions, land purchases, and the rebuilding efforts following a devastating fire. He was a trusted voice of reassurance and wisdom. In later years, he continued serving faithfully as part of Center Church, Libertyville.

Larry’s steady nature was complemented by his willingness to take bold steps. In a defining moment, he chose to leave his position at Kemper Insurance to build his own accounting practice in the summer of 1981. Through this work, he served thousands of clients and viewed his profession as a ministry, offering guidance, integrity, and support to churches, pastors, and small business owners navigating financial and tax matters.

Larry will be remembered and treasured by many, especially his grandchildren Griffin, Elin, Mia, and Lucy Handler as well as Noelle, Rosie, and Evie Larson, all of whom he loved and adored. They could make him laugh and smile more than anything else.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at Center Church, 858 Technology Way, Libertyville, Illinois, on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Visitation will start at 9:30 AM and the service at 11:00 AM.

We’re grateful for your love and support to our family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that interested parties would consider making a donation to Center Church, Libertyville, Illinois.

Please feel free to share your memories or messages of condolence in the guestbook below.

Find the official Lawrence G. McGhie obituary & memorials page only at www.LindenFunerals.com

Funeral Arrangements & Services Provided By: Linden Funerals & Cremation - 120 Peterson Road, Libertyville, IL 60048

Tel. 224-331-6330