Larry Wayne “Coach” Kershner, 78, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Born on January 23, 1947, in Hagerstown, Maryland, Larry lived a life defined by service, leadership, and a profound love for people.

A proud member of the South Hagerstown High School Class of 1965, Larry pursued higher education with determination, ultimately earning his MBA from Hood College in Frederick, Maryland. His professional journey led him into the world of banking, where he built a distinguished career as Vice President and Regional Sales Manager at M&T Bank (formerly First National Bank of Maryland). While he achieved much professionally, Larry often said the true highlight of his career was meeting his best friend and future wife, Barbara Beard Kershner—an encounter that blossomed into a loving relationship spanning 45 years.

Larry served his country with honor as a Lieutenant in the United States Army. Stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana, he commanded tanks and led with the same integrity and strength that would define every chapter of his life.

Though he did not grow up in the church, Larry came to embrace a deep spiritual connection later in life. He believed wholeheartedly that a higher power guided his life journey and found peace in knowing he was a child of God. This faith brought him comfort and clarity as he faced life’s challenges with grace.

Softball was a huge part of Larry’s life. His playing career began with fastpitch in the Mason-Dixon league. He went on to play both fastpitch and slowpitch in the Army, followed by years of slowpitch in the church league. Larry coached his sons’ baseball teams and his daughter’s softball teams. He was an integral part of the dream and actualization of the family business, Backwards K. His love of the game led to twenty years of pitching lessons and relationships that would last a lifetime.

Larry’s greatest joy came from his family. His perfect day started with coffee and conversation with Barb, on their oceanfront balcony. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, sharing a good meal with his family, spending holidays together and taking annual family cruises. Some of his favorite things to do were watching old “black and white” movies, listening to music (oldies, of course) and listening to audio books. His perfect day was any day spent with his family.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife Barbara; sons Larry Kershner II and Jason M. Kershner; daughters Sherry Toronjo, Alison Higgs, Ashley Higgs, and Marcie Higgs; grandchildren Trevor, Kyleigh, Hudson, Dannie, Matt, Wesley, Eryn, Hayla, Jayden, Karleigh, Adam, and Chloe; and great-grandchildren Daniel and Azura. As well as his brother; William Howard Kershner and sister; Anita Louise Hunter. 

He now reunites with those who passed before him: his beloved son Joshua Kershner; mother Edna Mae Alexander McElroy; father Raymond Leroy Kershner; dad Richard Vernon McElroy; sister Betty Mae Black; and brothers Ronald Lee Kershner and Charles Edward Kershner.

Known affectionately as “Coach,” Larry had an extraordinary gift - the ability to connect with people. He was fun-loving and caring with an infectious sense of humor that could light up any room. A natural encourager and mentor to many, he had the innate ability of instilling confidence in others. Whether through laughter or unwavering support, Larry made those around him feel seen and valued. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with kindness and wisdom.

A service with military honors will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 11:30am-12:00pm at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will commence at the Barn at Cottonwood Ranch immediately following the service at 12:30pm. RSVP is required to attend. Please RSVP by February 1 at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/Larry-Kershner

Active in the Salvation Army as an Advisory Board member, Larry strongly believed in their mission, vision and values. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the Hagerstown, MD and Jacksonville, FL chapters in his name at: https://tinyurl.com/Salvation-Army-Donation

May the memory of Coach Larry Kershner bring comfort to all who knew him—and may we carry forward his spirit and honor his legacy by lifting each other up the way he lifted each of us.