Reverend Larry Carver, M.D. (’66)
This obituary was originally published by Signature Funerals through Legacy and can be found here
Larry Carver, MD [September 14, 1937 – July 24, 2026]
Kansas City, Missouri – 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.
A service of celebration will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church 620 E. Armour Blvd. Kansas City Missouri at 2:00 pm on Friday, August 14, 2026.
Contributions can be made to The Parkinson’s Exercise and Wellness Center 3600 W. 95th St. Leawood, Kansas 66206. info@pewc.org. Arr: 816-214-5174