Larry George Jarrett

Larry George Jarrett was born on September 30, 1939, in Charleston, West Virginia, and left this world on December 7, 2016. From an early age, Larry exhibited a deep passion for reading and learning, often engrossed in the encyclopedias his parents had provided for him and his younger brother.
As a standout athlete, Larry made history during his senior year at the newly integrated Charleston High School, where he excelled as an end on the football team. In 1956, he became one of the first two Black students recognized on the Charleston Gazette’s prestigious 25th All Southern high school football team.
Following his graduation in 1957, Larry was awarded a full football scholarship to Marshall College (later Marshall University), making him one of the first Black students to join the 1957 Thundering Herd football team. His time at Marshall fostered lifelong friendships, especially with fellow athletes in Hodges Hall.
Larry earned his Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies (Geography) and Physical Education in 1961, followed by a Master’s degree in Geography from Marshall that same year. This academic achievement opened many doors, leading him to a position as a Geographic Analyst with the Department of the Army in Washington, D.C., where he became fluent in French.
Larry’s career included a notable 22-month tour in Vietnam and various Foreign Service roles with the U.S. State Department, where he was stationed in countries such as Sweden, Zambia, Nigeria, and Burundi. After retiring from government service, he returned to Marshall in 1993 as a faculty member, later serving as Chair of the Geography Department for a decade before his retirement in 2010.
A dedicated advocate for Black alumni, Larry served as president of Marshall University Black Alumni, Inc. during the 1999-2000 school year, passionately encouraging alumni to engage with the organization and participate in Homecoming events. He was also a member of the screening committee for the men’s head basketball coach position in 2007, reflecting his commitment to Marshall athletics.
Larry played a pivotal role in founding the Black Legends Hall of Fame in 1995, honoring the athletes who were among the first people of color to represent Marshall’s teams, with 125 athletes inducted. His loyalty to Marshall remained unwavering throughout his life, symbolized by the green M engraved on his headstone in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Larry George Janett’s legacy is one of resilience, mentorship, and profound dedication to education and community, inspiring generations to come.`