Mr. Larry J. Shields, Sr. was born on July 6, 1948, in Newton County, GA to the parents of the late Mrs. Marchineal Cody Shields and the late Mr. Wilbur Shields. He joined the Rust Chapel United Methodist Church at an early age. He enjoyed going to church and kept his faith and belief in his Savior, Jesus Christ. Larry was educated in the public schools of the Newton County School System and graduated from R. L. Cousins High School in 1967. He played on the high school basketball team and made friends in school that lasted his lifetime. After high school, Larry entered the United States Army, where he served faithfully from February 19, 1968 to February 6, 1970. He received an Honorable Discharge for his service. After returning home from the service, he met Marilyn Tanks White. They dated briefly and were married on August 14, 1971. To this union, three children were born. Marilyn and Larry share more that forty-eight years together, teaching and giving wise counsel. Larry was an excellent provider for his family. He was employed by Golden State Foods for many years. After retirement, he started his own business beginning as a licensed barber, licensed cosmetologist, auto detailing, and finally his own lawn service. Shields Enterprises confirmed that he was an entrepreneur indeed.

During his leisure, Larry treasured spending time with family and friends-especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed grilling, gardening, bowling, golf, chess, card games and watching all sports. He delighted in tailgating at football games at Fort Valley State, University of Georgia, Georgia/Florida, and the Atlanta Falcons. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; son, Larry Shields, Jr.; daughter, Yolanda Denise Johnson; brother, Wilbur Shields, Jr., a sister, Evelyn McClendon. On Thursday, April 30, 2020, God, in His divine wisdom, released angels from Paradise to Piedmont Newton Hospital with orders for the soul of his servant, while he was peacefully sleeping. Though Larry’s departure saddened the hearts of his loving family, the memories will always live on. He will be missed by a loving and devoted family including his wife, Rev. Marilyn T. Shields of Oxford, GA; three sons, Ronnie Fuller and M. Brandon (Sara) Shields both of Covington, GA and Julius A. (Alexis) Shields of Conyers, GA; nine grandchildren, Mallori Johnson, Ashely Lewis and Jalen Fuller; and Madeline, Mason, Merrick, Myles, Alexander and Jasmine Shields; four great-grandchildren, Kevon and Kenyon Lewis; and Kennedi and Kaden Rogers; sisters and brothers-in-law, Marvin J. Tanks and Brenda T. (Ron) Hewitt of Atlanta, GA; Evangelist Sandra T. Trice of Thomaston, GA and Retired Commander Wendell D. (Jeanie) Tanks of San Diego, CA; two devoted and long-time friends Leon (Freda) Ward of Enterprise, AL and Maurice Veal of Pittsburg, CA; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends who love him dearly. Interment Oxford City Historical Cemetery