Laurie L. Linder, Jr., 76, passed away Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at his home in Wauchula, FL surrounded by his family following a lengthy battle with his health.

The son of the late Dorris and Laurie L. Linder, Sr., he was a 1964 graduate of Hardee County High School. He attended the University of South Florida before enlisting in the United States Army, where he served two tours of duty in Vietnam as a helicopter repairman, door gunner, and Crew Chief.

He was co-owner of Peninsular Equipment Company in Wauchula and later worked in agricultural and farming equipment sales.

He was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Wauchula where he sang in the choir and later served as the choir director for almost a decade.

He was a proud member of the American Legion, Herger Williams Post no. 2 in Wauchula, the VFW and during his son's childhood, he served as a Boy Scouts of America troop leader for troops 822 and 875. As a former member of the Hardee County Players, he participated in local plays and musicals where he sang and shared his larger-than-life personality.

He is survived by daughter, Melanie Carnley and husband Jesse of Wauchula, son Michael Linder and wife Amanda of Wauchula, sister Judith LeMassena and husband Bob of Hopewell, New Jersey, a nephew, Robert LeMassena of New Jersey and 5 grandchildren; Aubree and Joshua Carnley, and Joseph, Connor, and Jacob Linder, all of Wauchula.

Visitation will be Friday, May 5, 2023, from 12 pm -1 pm at the First United Methodist Church of Wauchula with funeral services following at 1 pm with Reverend Danielle Upton and lifelong friend Mike Graham officiating.

In lieu of flowers, can be made to the American Legion Post No. 2,117 W. Palmetto Street, Wauchula, FL 33873

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com.

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.