Donald Lee Larue

Born in Higginsville, Missouri on June 2nd, 1933. Don grew up with a deep love of sports and excelled in all the requirements of an Eagle Scout. Don attended Corder High School, where he was an outstanding athlete—especially excelling in basketball. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country. He later returned to Higginsville, where he married and raised his two daughters, Jana and Lana.

Don’s career with AFLAC brought him to Florida in 1975, where he enjoyed many successful years as Regional Manager for Southwest and Central Florida. It was in Florida that he met and married his wife, Vicki, building a life together in the Lakeland area for 30 years. Don was a member of the American Legion and the Grasslands Golf and Country Club.

Don was a character beyond all words—full of humor, energy, and an unmistakable zest for life. He loved people and embraced every opportunity for fun, whether golfing, playing pool, or cruising on his boat, Someday. A devoted sports fan, he cheered passionately for the Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Tampa Bay Rays. Don was also a master of the Green Egg, famous for his pulled pork and always eager to share his grilling wisdom. He took immense pride in his pristine and drivable 1964 Chevy named Aunt Nez, a treasure he maintained with care and joy.

Those who knew Don will forever remember his quick wit and favorite sayings including “That was then, and this is now.” Don’s compassion for others extended even on his deathbed as he donated his organs for research.

Don is survived by his wife, Victoria Thompson LaRue; daughters Jana Leigh LaRue of Higginsville and Alana LaRue Pyle (Tim) of Bradenton; and son Seth Thompson Seymour (Seria) of Largo. He leaves behind three granddaughters—Helesha Becker of Lakeland, JoHanna (Ryan) Roby of Tampa Bay, and Mila Seymour of Largo—and three grandsons: Dennis Welch of Bradenton, Drew Welch of Montgomery AL, and Xavier Seymour of Largo. And notably, Don is survived by his beloved companion, shadow, and lap kitty, Tuna.

The family gives their sincerest gratitude to the National Cremation Society for overseeing all aspects of Don’s final wishes and for guiding us through the process. We also appreciate the palliative care team and the doctors and staff at Lakeland Regional Hospital for their compassion and expert clinical care.

On a personal note, I (Vicki) thank Don’s daughters and our friends who have stood with me through this journey.

A celebration of Don’s amazing life will be at The Club at Eaglebrooke, Lakeland on July 25th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Please RSVP including your name and number of guests by text to Vicki at (863) 521-5726. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lakeland.