Obituary of Lawrence F. Messenger Jr.

Lawrence F. Messenger Jr, 82, of Rome, N.Y. passed away unexpectedly on December 9^th, 2024, at Oneida Health Hospital. Born on February 21st, 1942, he was the son of the late Lawrence Messenger Sr. and Helen Shaver. Lawrence accepted a position with Rome Cable as a young man. He became a jack of all trades utilizing his skills as a machine operator, car transporter, and various other mechanically inclined positions. His most recent place of employment was J.M. Uvanni Motors in Rome, where he was a valued employee until his illness this past summer.

Larry loved tinkering with cars, riding his Harley Davidson in his younger years and became an avid collector of die cast NASCAR cars & classic car models. He enjoyed attending local car shows to observe the classics. He was a former member of the Moose Club where he formed many friends over the years. In addition, he was a member of the Methodist Churches in Lowell and Vernon Center where he enjoyed fellowshipping with the entire congregation.  He will be greatly missed by many as he was a kind and affable man who loved being around people socializing, sharing stories and making people laugh.

He is survived by his fiancé, Gwendolyn “Wendy” Grosjean; son, Alan Messenger; daughter, Lorraine (Joe) Griffo; a sister -in- law, Zoe Messenger; grandchildren, Savannah Messenger, Alyssa (Ryan) Griffin, several nieces, nephews, and cousins; along with other extended family members.  He was predeceased by his son, Roger Messenger and brother’s, Steven and Robert Messenger.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Larry’s memory to the Rome Rescue Mission through romemission.org (donate link) or can be mailed to: PO Box 337, Rome, NY 13440.

In keeping with Lawrences wishes, funeral services are private, there are no calling hours. Internment will take place at Townsend Cemetery in Spring of 2025. Funeral Services are entrusted to Strong-Burns and Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Rd. Rome, NY 13440.