Larry Wayne Cassell

Larry Wayne Cassell, 76, of Jefferson passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and two daughters on Thursday, February 15, 2024. Larry was born on August 31, 1947 in Frederick, son of Vernon M. Sr. and Mildred Sensenbaugh Cassell.

Larry graduated from Middletown High School in 1965 then graduated from Salisbury State College in 1969, where he was voted Mr. SSC and served as Class president. He continued his education by earning a Master’s degree at Shippensburg University, PA in 1972. After, Larry continued his studies at University of MD, completing all coursework except for the dissertation work for his doctorate.

Larry began his teaching career at Urbana Elementary School then shortly after Myersville Elementary. He quickly became Assistant Principal at Thurmont Middle School. Following he served as Principal at Wolfsville,  Waverly , Walkersville Elementary,  Middletown Middle and ended  his career at Ballenger Creek Elementary School. He retired in 2004 after 35 years. During his many years he mentored many new teachers and student teachers from Mt. Saint Mary’s University.   In 2003 Larry was the recipient of the Washington Post Distinguished Educational leadership award.

Larry’s community service involvement began in college as he served in the Circle K, a branch of Kiwanis. After returning to Frederick County he began his involvement in the Braddock Heights Optimist Club and earned an Outstanding Leadership award as club president.
Cassell moved to the Springview neighborhood of Jefferson in 1977 and joined the Jefferson Ruritan Club shortly after. He also volunteered  with several community fire stations. Larry received special permission to respond to emergency fire calls while working as principal in the small community of Wolfsville. Once, the entire school student population watched as Mr. Cassell was actively responding to an emergency call. Larry also had certification as an EMT.

Larry’s Ruritan  career began in 1978 at the Jefferson Ruritan Club.  He held many offices in his local community club, including president and club secretary for over 25 years. As a member of the Ruritan Club,  Larry was also very active in the yearly Jefferson Carnival.  With his continued commitment to community service he held leadership positions as Governor of the Potomac District – compiled of 45 clubs. He later became a National Ruritan Director from 2015 through 2017 and in 2018 Larry served as National President Elect. The highlight of his Ruritan career was being elected National President for 2019. This involved many club visits throughout the eastern United States where both he and wife, Nelda enjoyed visiting and meeting fellow Ruritans.

His commitment was recognized via these notable awards: Tom Downing Fellow in 2001  Potomac District Governor of appreciation of service award in 2014.Outstanding National Director of 2016, ,  Ruritan Forever member named in 2016.  
He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church after being raised in the Centennial  United Methodist Church in Frederick.

Nelda C. and Larry were married 54 ½ years. During the many years of marriage, Larry & Nelda enjoyed skiing and camping trips. They also traveled to all 50 states and over 40 countries.  Larry also enjoyed reading, golfing, visiting the beach, crabbing and fishing in the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.

Larry was not only a dedicated husband he was a loving father of 2 daughters, Laura and Emily. He never missed a soccer game, swim meet, piano or dance recital.
Some of his proudest moments were the weddings of his daughters and the arrival of all 4 of his grandsons. Now better known as “PapPap” he most recently enjoyed attending his grandsons cross county, track events, ice hockey, baseball, soccer and lacrosse games.  He has truly been adored by all 4 of his grandsons.

He is survived by his 3 older brothers, Vernon M (Ruth Ann) , Harold (Sheila)  and James (Beth), his wife, Nelda, 2 daughters and grandsons: Laura, husband Randy (AJ & Zak), Emily, husband JT (Brooks & Bodie) nieces and nephews and many cousins.  He was preceded in his death by his parents, Vernon M. Sr. and Mildred Sensenbaugh Cassell and beloved granddaughter, Allie. 

 
Larry was the life of the party, always surrounded by friends and family. He very much enjoyed dancing, noting the Electric Slide as his favorite.
Viewing Hours are Monday, February 19, 5-9 PM and Funeral Service to be held Tuesday, February 20, 1 PM both being held at Stauffer Funeral Home. 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Celebration of Life to be held at his beloved Jefferson Community Center following the funeral service.  4603B Lander Rd. Jefferson.

Memorial Donations may be made to the Community Foundation of Frederick County MD, via frederickcountygives.org in the name of the Ballenger Creek Elementary School fund (established upon his retirement) or to the Jefferson Ruritan Scholarship fund.
Larry’s final resting place will be at the family plot in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Frederick.