Longtime Educator and Pastor Larry Jay Gwaltney Passes Away

Gwaltney taught at several high schools and served as a bi-vocational pastor before retiring in 2009.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Larry Jay Gwaltney, a longtime educator and pastor from Benton, Illinois, passed away at his home on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the age of 72 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Gwaltney had a diverse career, teaching at high schools in Fairfield, Allendale, Gillespie, and Bluford (Webber), as well as Carmi-White County Middle School, before retiring in 2009. He also served as a bi-vocational pastor and supply preacher for several rural churches throughout his teaching career.

Why it matters

Gwaltney's passing marks the end of an era for the local community, as he was a respected educator and religious leader who dedicated his life to serving others through teaching and ministry. His story highlights the important role that small-town educators and pastors can play in shaping the lives of young people and providing spiritual guidance to their communities.

The details

After retiring from teaching in 2009, Gwaltney worked as a night custodian at the University of Southern Indiana until 2013. He was raised in the Mill Shoals area of White County and began his career in photography at Southeast Missouri State University before transitioning to education.

  • Gwaltney passed away at his home on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton.
  • A celebration of life service will follow at 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the funeral home.

The players

Larry Jay Gwaltney

A longtime educator and pastor from Benton, Illinois, who passed away at the age of 72 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

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What’s next

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, or to Adult & Teen Challenge Mid-America (directed to Deborah's House) in Cape Girardeau. Donations will be accepted at the funeral home.

The takeaway

Gwaltney's life and legacy as an educator and pastor who served his community for decades will be remembered and celebrated by those whose lives he touched. His passing is a reminder of the important role that small-town leaders can play in shaping the lives of young people and providing spiritual guidance to their communities.