Larry

Caperton

George Larry Caperton, known to family and friends as Coach, passed away peacefully at his home in Brandon, Mississippi, on November 8, 2026, at the age of 81. It is with heavy hearts that his family announces his passing. 

Born on March 12, 1945, in Louisville, Mississippi, Larry was the son of George Herbert Caperton and Elena Talbert Caperton. He was raised in Louisville, where he graduated from Louisville High School. He then attended East Central Community College, where he played football, before continuing his education at Mississippi State University, where he earned his degree. In 1999, Larry made Brandon, Mississippi, his home, moving there in anticipation of the birth of his first grandchild so he could be close to his growing family. 

Larry dedicated his entire professional career to education and athletics. As a teacher and coach, he spent his life shaping the lives of young people through his passion for football and track. His accomplishments included winning a state championship in 1991 while coaching high school football at Tunica Academy, as well as winning numerous high school track championships. In 2007, he was inducted into the Mississippi Private School Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his dedication and lasting contributions to the sports he loved. 

Outside of teaching and coaching, Larry enjoyed football, gardening, fishing, and, of course, enjoying his wife’s wonderful cooking. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures and took pride in the things he loved. But above all else, his family was his greatest joy. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose love for them was fierce and unwavering. 

Larry married the love of his life, Wanda Caperton, in 1967. Together, they built a life and family that meant everything to him. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Wanda; his two children, Thad Caperton and Shelley Carr; and his two beloved grandchildren, Sophie Iannelli and Cate Carr. 

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, George Herbert Caperton and Elena Talbert Caperton, and his sisters, Peggy Stokes, Charlene Baggett, and Carolyn Mills. After losing both of his parents at a young age, Larry was lovingly raised by his oldest sister, Carolyn, who cared for him as her own son. Through Carolyn, he shared a special bond with her children, Teresa Ingram, Carol Clark, Julie Mills, David Mills, Clinton Mills, and Danny Mills, whom he loved as his own brothers and sisters. The bond they shared remained an important part of his life. 

Larry was a humble man with a generous heart. He was the kind of person who would give his last dime or his last hour to anyone in need, never expecting anything in return. He lived his life with a strong faith in God and a quiet kindness that spoke louder than words. A God-fearing man, Larry has now found his eternal peace and is finally walking again alongside Jesus. 

His love, generosity, faith, and devotion to his family will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his accomplishments, one built on the lives he touched, the people he loved, and the kindness he showed throughout his life. He will be missed by so many and loved forever. 

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon, MS. Burial will follow at Lakeland Place Memorial Park, located on Highway 25. The service will be officiated by Dr. Keith Grubbs.