Landis V. Curry Jr.

Landis V. Curry Jr., a true Southern gentleman in every sense of the word, went to be with the Lord on September 17, 2025. Lanny will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, sharp wit, and deep love for family, friends, the Florida Gators, and Ocala. He was known for his generous spirit, warm smile, quiet humility, and lack of pretense. He had an uncanny ability to make people feel cherished and at home.

Born December 18, 1934 in Ocala to Strick and Evelyn Curry, Lanny was raised with a deep appreciation for his Ocala roots and a strong sense of tradition, family, and hospitality. Growing up in the beauty of Silver Springs, he had a deep connection to Old Florida that lasted his entire life.

He graduated from Ocala High School in 1952, where he was Student Body President and Captain of the baseball team. He then attended the University of Florida where he was a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity.

After receiving his degree, he served in the United States Navy as a Frogman with the Underwater Demolition Teams, the teams that would go on to become the earliest units of the Navy Seals. He served on many top secret missions, helped recover the nose cones for the first space flights, went diving with Jaques Custeau, and received commendations for bravery and leadership. He ultimately graduated from the U.S. Naval Justice School and earned a doctorate in Undersea Technology.

After serving in active duty for five years, he went back to Gainesville to earn his law degree, which he received with honors as a member of the Florida Law Review. He thereafter built a respected career at the Ayers, Cluster, Curry Law Firm where he worked with and mentored many exceptional attorneys in the local bar. Throughout his career, he was known for his integrity and his firm-but-fair business dealings. He was respected for his steadfast principles and unwavering honesty. His word was his bond, and his handshake was a promise.

While his professional accomplishments were many, his greatest legacy was the grace with which he lived his life. He was a man who always opened a door for a lady, offered a helping hand without being asked, and never met a stranger. Whether in a bustling boardroom or a local fishing hole, he carried himself with a natural dignity and effortless charm. His subtle humor and genuine warmth made everyone feel welcome.

Lanny was a devoted family man. He is survived by Valeria, his beloved wife of 65 years, his children, Karen (Chris) and Lance (Tara), his grandchildren, Landyn, Whit, and Wynn, his brother Craig (Carol), and many nieces, nephews, and countless friends. He is preceded in death by his parents (Strick and Evelyn) and his brother (Jimmy).

Lanny was a longtime and active member of the Gator Booster Club.  A Bull Gator for many years, he served on the University of Florida President’s Council. He also served locally, dedicating extensive time to the Humane Society of Marion County, the Elks Lodge, and the Ocala Gator Tip Off Club.

He loved to duck and quail hunt with his brothers and his friends, including Joe, Bo, Gus, Terry, and Big John. He could often be found rooting on the Florida Gators at his legendary Camp Curry tailgate, where his catch phrase—“Good to see ya!”—was frequently heard. He also loved quiet afternoons on the front porch of his favorite place, Lake Weir.

Lanny embodied the qualities that defined him: courtesy, empathy, and an inner peace that brought comfort to those around him. He possessed a rare ability to understand and respect others, even when he did not agree with them. His life was a testament to the idea that quiet confidence and genuine warmth are the true marks of a gentleman. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A funeral service will be held on September 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Roberts Downtown Chapel, 606 SW 2nd Ave, Ocala, FL, 34471. The family will thereafter receive friends and loved ones at the Country Club of Ocala.