Larry Nighswonger

Larry Lynn Nighswonger ("Poppy"), 87, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his daughter's home on April 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Larry lived a full and purpose-driven life marked by hard work, deep love for family, strong Christian faith, and a passion for living fully.

Larry was born on September 18, 1937, in Wichita, Kansas, to Edith and Lawrence Nighswonger. He married the love of his life, Sherry (Guthridge) Nighswonger, in 1959. They shared nearly 60 years of marriage before her passing in 2018. In her final years, Larry lovingly cared for Sherry at home as she bravely battled Alzheimer's disease-an act of devotion that defined his deep and unwavering love for her.

Larry began a 30-year career with Southwestern Bell, retiring at the age of 47. As he moved up through the company, he and Sherry raised their children in several different towns, always building a loving home wherever they went. Never one to sit still, Larry co-founded Guthridge/Nighswonger General Contracting with his brother-in-law, Dick Guthridge, within a year of retiring. He successfully owned and operated the business from 1986 until 2014. One of his greatest joys during that time was working side by side with his son Rich, who partnered with him in the company for many years. He later retired again to fully care for Sherry.

Larry raised two children, Lori Hamilton (Kent) of Silver Lake, Kansas, and Rich Nighswonger (Susie) of Wichita, Kansas. He was a constant and loving presence in their lives and was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, sense of humor, and deep devotion to family. In his younger years, Larry had a passion for drag racing and proudly served as crew chief for a drag racing team. Throughout his life, he enjoyed playing cards, fishing, caring for his yard, wintering in Padre Island, and spending countless cherished days at the family lake house at Lake of the Ozarks-a place he and his family enjoyed for over 40 years and where he continued to find peace, joy, and togetherness for the rest of his life.

A man of enduring faith, Larry was a longtime member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Wichita. He lived his Christian values daily through acts of kindness, service, and love for others.

Above all, Larry's greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Affectionately known as "Poppy," not only to his grandchildren but to all of their friends, he never missed an important event and was always their biggest fan. His grandchildren include Ashley (Darrin) Baumchen, Courtney (Brenon) Hamilton, and Michael Hamilton, all of Silver Lake, Kansas; Richard (Hannah) Nighswonger and Shannon (Doug) Padzensky of Wichita. He is also survived by eight great-grandchildren, with another on the way.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sherry; his parents, Edith and Lawrence Nighswonger; and his sisters, Judy Simmons and Karen Smith. He is survived by his children Lori (Kent) Hamilton and Rich (Susie) Nighswonger; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his special companion in later years, Shirley Pennypacker; brothers-in-law Gene Simmons, Bud Smith, and Dick (Rita) Guthridge; numerous extended family; and the many "surrogate" children, family, and friends who lovingly considered him a second dad, a brother, or simply "Poppy."

A visitation will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, May 6th at Broadway Mortuary. Service will follow at 10:30am and burial will take place at Old Mission Cemetery.

• In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
• Immanuel Baptist Church
• 1415 S. Topeka,
• Wichita, KS 67211
• -
• Kansas Humane Society
• 3313 N. Hillside,
• Wichita, KS 67219