Larry Carver, MD

Aug 7, 2026 | Obituaries, Obituaries 2026 | 6 comments

Larry Adkins Carver, MD

Larry Adkins Carver, MD died peacefully in his sleep on July 24, 2026, after having lived with Parkinson’s Disease for many years. He was born in San Diego, CA, September 14, 1937 to Lottie and Floyd Carver. Larry was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Patricia.

Larry is survived by his wife of 43 years, Elaine Spencer-Carver, PhD. Surviving family members include: daughter Diana Lee, DO (Robert), their children, Tommi Lee and Jacque Reilly (Nathan). Great grandchildren are Andre, Caydence, Shaina, Madison Lee and Olivia Reilly. Daughter, Deborah Carver Hodges, MD (Andy) granddaughters, Sydney and Julia. Son, Mitch Weatherly (Erin) and grandchildren Nola and Eamonn.

Larry lived a life of service. After graduating with a BA from Southwestern College (Winfield, Kansas) he began a STM degree from Boston University School of Theology finishing in 1966. After serving churches in Massachusetts and Kansas, he began medical school at the University of Kansas Medical Center, completing his MD in 1974. His residency in Psychiatry was completed through the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry in 1976. Larry studied neurochemistry with Ralph Adams, PhD at the University of Kansas, Lawrence. Dr. Carver’s interest became a beacon for his practice, research and teaching. Larry taught at Louisiana State University, New Orleans; The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City; and the University of Missouri-Kansas City, training a generation of psychiatrists. He developed a Brain Tissue Bank to support brain research initially at the Louisiana State Medical Center and later transferred the Brain Tissue Bank to the University of Kansas Medical Center where it continues to support brain exploration.

In addition to his service as a minister and physician, Larry served his country through the Army, the Army Reserves and The Louisiana National Guard. He was activated during Desert Storm and served at Ft Polk, Louisianna for the duration of the war. He earned the rank of Lt. Colonel. Through his preaching, teaching and leadership, he was beloved and respected by many.

IMPORTANT UPDATE TO SERVICE LOCATION: The celebration of life will now be held at Central Presbyterian Church, 3501 Campbell St. Kansas City, MO 64109 (just a few blocks from Trinity UMC) at 2:00 pm on Friday, August 14, 2026.

Contributions can be made to The Parkinson’s Exercise and Wellness Center 3600 W. 95^th St. Leawood, Kansas 66206. info@pewc.org

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Elizabeth Penick

1 month ago

Dr. Carver was the first among the first. He was a sensitive and insightful clinician, a wonderful teacher and great mentor. He will be greatly missed by all who had the opportunity rub shoulders with him for any length of time.

Michael & Ginger Lyons (PEWC)

1 month ago

That smile said “Hi Friend!” no matter when or where he greeted you. He was a blessing to our world.
What an amazing couple.💞

Dana Mason

1 month ago

Larry was my brother in law. We got along great. He was a great guy and very intelligent as are his girls

Michael Prejean

1 month ago

Larry was a lovely man who always had a twinkle in his eye. He was a spiritual and welcoming presence.

Sharon & Michael Prejean

Kate Beem

1 month ago

Elaine, please accept my condolences on your loss. Dr. Carver was a gem.

Donna House

1 month ago

Larry was a very loving man and i always got a laugh when I went to their home and I will miss that but he is making his heavenly family laugh. Donna House

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Thank you for all your help after Doug's passing. Lara and I felt pretty helpless at that time and you came to our rescue. All my best, Joan

Joan

We deeply appreciate the kindness and support that you've shown us during this difficult time. It will always be remembered by our family.

M. Weber Family

Thank you ladies for making our Father's memorial special. You went above and beyond and helped us feel special during a difficult time.

O'Brien's

You took the worst week of my life and took the best care of our loved one. Thank you for your kind and gentle guidance. May God Bless you in your worthy work.

A. Koch

Thank you both for the patience and understanding on the logistics of BK's funeral arrangements. It was a pleasure to work with you both. My sister, Julie, couldn't have been more pleased. The services you offer are well thought out and executed with compassion.

MHD

Dad has commented several times since mom's passing how her Celebration of Life was such a nice tribute to her and how grateful he was for that process to be handled so smoothly.

Beth W.

You both have exceeded your calling, and I'm so grateful you were there for me.

Marchia

Words will never be enough to properly express our gratitude...Your care for him and your guidance in our hour of need will never be repaid. Thank you, a million times, for you compassion and respectful service.

Nicole

Thank you so much for all of the care and concern you have given our family. We appreciate all of your help in planning the funeral. You did a wonderful job!

The Abram Family

Thank you so much for your compassionate care of our family. You have answered Dad's call to comfort grieving families, and we are so grateful.

Nancy

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Bukeka and Makeda

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Cynthia

You made the whole experience of losing my Dad so much more bearable thank I could have imagined. Thank you so much for everything.

Paula H.

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Amy E.

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Joyce F.

Thank you again for all of your help, support and encouragement.

Linda S.

I want to thank you and the friend that is making these wonderful white cloths ... whenever I see it it reminds me of a shroud and brings a very pleasant peace.

thank you dear friend

Elaine

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Most Grateful I am, Robert S.

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With much gratitude and love,

Vicki and family

Cathy Boomer has a very calming influence and sense of peacefulness about her, even in the most emotional situations. She handled all the details of my mother's passing and funeral with professional dignity. She was unobtrusive but in control of all the little details and we, as a family, relied on her with immense satisfaction.

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Ralph F.

I want to thank you, on behalf of my family, and father in particular, beginning with your presence with us the night of mom's passing in her room. You were a calming presence throughout. Your funeral space is lovely and uplifting. It was, indeed, the perfect space for such a somber, but also celebrated gathering. Thank you for your guidance throughout.

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Jim and Leslie

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Cherlyn

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Anne E.

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