Longtime Wyoming Rancher and Rodeo Judge Larry Lee Proctor Dies at 85

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Larry Lee Proctor, a longtime resident of Hulett, Wyoming who was born in 1940, passed away on February 5, 2026 at his home in Elk City, Oklahoma at the age of 85. Proctor grew up on a ranch, served in the Marine Corps, started his own oil rights company, and was an active member of the American Legion and his local church community.

Why it matters

Proctor's life story reflects the experiences of many rural Westerners who grew up on ranches, served in the military, and built careers in industries like mining and oil and gas. His involvement in rodeo and community organizations also highlights the importance of these cultural institutions in small towns across the region.

The details

After graduating from Hulett High School in 1958, Proctor joined the Marine Corps and served at Camp Pendleton in California. He met his wife Phyllis Carole (Hollon) during this time, and they married after his discharge in 1962. The couple then moved back to Hulett, where Proctor worked for Homestake Mining Company. Proctor pursued his love of rodeo, competing in saddle bronc and roping events, and later became a rodeo judge and mentor to young participants. In 1977, he started his own right-of-way company for oil leases in Casper, Wyoming, which he operated until 1989 when he and Phyllis moved back to Hulett to help his aging parents on their ranch. The couple later retired to Elk City, Oklahoma, where Proctor worked for NOV until 2010.

• Proctor was born on December 24, 1940 in Hulett, Wyoming.
• He graduated from Hulett High School in 1958.
• Proctor served in the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton in California and married Phyllis Carole (Hollon) in 1962 after his discharge.
• Proctor started his own oil rights company in Casper, Wyoming in 1977, operating it until 1989.
• Proctor passed away at his home in Elk City, Oklahoma on February 5, 2026 at the age of 85.