Samuel “Sam” Harry Larson

Samuel “Sam” Harry Larson, born April 11, 1970, in Hubbard, Iowa, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 27, 2026 in Nags Head, NC. Sam was truly one of a kind. Charismatic, charming, and endlessly entertaining, he had the rare ability to turn any moment into a celebration. He was the life of the party, a natural storyteller, and someone who could make anyone laugh. As those who knew him liked to joke, Sam “could sell a ketchup popsicle to a woman in white gloves.” Larger than life in every way, he brought energy, humor, and warmth wherever he went.
Music, Cooking and the Philadelphia Eagles were Sam’s lifelong passions, often serving as the backdrop to his gatherings. Sam also loved golf and good company, and he had a talent for making people feel welcome and at ease. Sam was a wonderful father and his granddaughter Poet was the sunshine of his life this last year.
Sam was a talented and creative chef whose gift for food matched his gift for entertaining. He worked at restaurants across Iowa, Virginia, and North Carolina, including Mountain Lake Resort, Blacksburg Country Club, Windmill Point, Bacu Grill, Red Sky Cafe, Red Drum Taphouse, and the Outer Banks Brewing Station. True to form, he could make anything taste good.
He is survived by his three cherished children and son-in-law; Vanessa Larson Morris (Nick) of Wilmington, NC, Henry Larson and Eddie Larson of Nags Head, NC; his beloved granddaughter, Poet Larson-Morris; his mother, Shirley Larson of Blacksburg, Virginia; his siblings and their spouses, Holly Larson Lesko (Jack) also of Blacksburg, VA; Matt Larson (Shelly) of Des Moines, Iowa; Tim Larson (Melissa) of Kansas City, Missouri; and nieces and nephews Cara Larson (Maisy), Aubree Larson, Nora Larson, Sam Lesko (Lindsay) and Teig Lesko.
Sam was baptized and confirmed in his childhood church, Zion United Church of Christ in Hubbard. He was preceded in death by his father, Ed Larson, in 1989. Sam will be remembered for his laughter, his food and the unforgettable way he made people feel when they were with him. He left the party too soon and we all feel the loss of his true hospitality.
The family has honored Sam’s preference for cremation. They will host a celebration of life gathering at his favorite hangout, LaFogata in Nags Head, on April 11, 2026 at 11am. The time will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mustang Music Outreach Program (https://www.mustangoutreachobx.org/) to honor Sam’s love of music and generosity to those in need.
Please share condolences with the family on-line at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.