Robert Joseph "Red" Larson

Robert Joseph “Red” Larson, 75, passed away November 27, 2025 in Alexandria, Virginia. Born October 5th, 1950 at Cherry Point, North Carolina, Red lived a life defined by service, integrity, and deep care for others. Red proudly served in the United States Navy for 25 years, rising to the rank of Master Chief. Among his most cherished accomplishments was his time as an Avionics Electricians Mate with the Blue Angels, where he was honored by his peers as “Blue Angel of the Year” in 1978. His dedication to service did not end with his military retirement. Driven by compassion and purpose, Red earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Providence College and began a second career helping those facing dual diagnosis challenges in mental health and substance abuse. He was a devoted advocate, counselor, and mentor who never stopped believing in the possibility of healing. He came to those beliefs through his journey as a recovering alcoholic. Red celebrated over 47 years of sobriety. He served countless individuals through Alcoholics Anonymous, offering wisdom, honesty, and unwavering support. His presence at a meeting, a school gymnasium, or a church gathering carried the same spirit: to lift others up and lead with love. He was an accomplished public speaker and a servant of the community, including within the Roman Catholic Church. Red was a coach, a teacher, and the unofficial “team psychologist” of every youth team his children played on. He believed in encouraging young people, challenging them, and—when necessary—yelling at referees with passion. He was a lifelong fan of the Boston Celtics and the Jacksonville Jaguars, and an even bigger fan of any team that his children or grandchildren happened to be on. His love for his family was the foundation of his life. Red is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Nancy Larson; his children Chris, Dan, and Greg Larson; his grandchildren Carter, Sydney, Joshua, Zenon, and Torsten; and his sister, Jane Larson. He was preceded in death by his sister Carol Valencourt. Those who knew him remember one piece of advice he often shared: “When you are not sure what to do, just make sure to do the next right thing. If you do enough of those in a row, things will turn out just fine.” Red lived by those words, and because of it, many lives are better. Funeral services will be held at St. Matthew’s Church in Jacksonville, Florida, on December 12th, followed by burial at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

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Robert Joseph "Red" Larson

October 5, 1950 - November 27, 2025