Thomas Larry Craven, 82, passed away on July 3, 2026, in Hemphill. Born on November 22, 1943, in Laurel, Mississippi, to William Harmon Craven and Mary Leavy Bates Craven, Thomas spent his formative years in Mississippi before making Sabine County, his home for the last 16 years of his life. Larry had a distinguished career in the oilfield industry, where he notably served as the Country Manager and Vice-President of operations in Abu Dhabi and Egypt. His commitment to his work was paralleled by his dedication to philanthropy, particularly to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, an organization he fervently supported.

A proud veteran, Thomas served in the United States Navy, where he embraced the ethos of service and commitment. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of duty, which he carried into his civilian endeavors, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Jean Craven of Hemphill; daughters, Laura Sonnier and husband, Ernie, of Orange, Karen Mann and husband, Greg, of Groves, and LaDonna Crumpton and husband, Tom, of Tellico Plains, Tennessee. Thomas was a cherished grandfather to Chase, Caitleigh, Morgan, and Erik, and a great-grandfather to Elijah, Blake, Ally, Riley, Chandler, and Laiklynn. His best friends, Gary Cato and Lee Matherne, also survive him.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Mary Craven; brother, Lee Craven; and grandson, Thomas Blake Sonnier.

Memorial services for Larry will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Starr Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Shriners Hospitals would be deeply appreciated by the family, honoring Larry's legacy of helping others. Contribute to Shriner's Hospitals for Children Attn: Shriners Children's PO Box 947765 Atlanta, GA 30394 Notes or online at https://donate.shrinerschildrens.org/campaign/618584/donate Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome. com.