By Sarah Anderson

Popular Educator and NAACP board member, Lawrence "Larry" Aldridge died on Saturday, May 23, after a battle with cancer.  He was 73.

Aldridge was born in Eupora, Mississippi and graduated from Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi.  He eventually moved to Ohio and received his masters degree in curriculum and supervision from Miami University and a degree in research from Xavier University. 

He worked in the Middletown City and Hamilton City Schools for 32 years, which included serving as principal of Harrison Elementary School for five years and director of the alternative school from 1977-78.  Before retiring in 1997, Aldridge taught at Monroe High School, Jefferson Elementary School, and McKinley Elementary School.

Known by his colleagues for his "kind heart and compassion" Wilhelmina Prier, whom he taught with at McKinely tells the Middletown Journal that Aldridge would sometimes pay utility bills for students' families and cook breakfast for his fellow teachers.  He was also not afraid to stand up for what he believed in which is perhaps what led him to serve as a member of the board for Middletown's chapter of the NAACP. 

Aldridge was a member of the Bethel AME Church in Middletown and served as a past steward, past director of the Young People's Department, and a past member of the usher board and the male chorus.

Mr. Aldrige is survived by his wife of 48 years, Vernice Aldridge.  She says they did everything together and that he was her "soulmate." They have four sons: Steven, Larry Jr., Anthony, and Kevin.

Visitation is from 10:00 AM - Noon on Saturday, May 30.  The funeral will follow at Bethel AME Church.