Raymond Herbert Larsen

Raymond Herbert “Poppy” Larsen, 94, of Hagerstown, Maryland, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025. Born on January 2, 1931, in Warren, Pennsylvania, he was the cherished son of Burdena Marcia Kershner and Herbert Raymond Larsen.

Ray met the love of his life, Patricia McCarthy, at a local ice cream shop, and the two were married on June 6, 1953. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with devotion, laughter, and adventure, sharing 61 years of marriage before Patricia’s passing in 2014.

Ray served his country in the United States Air Force for four years before attending Penn State University, where he proudly earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. He dedicated his career to Potomac Edison, where he held leadership roles as an engineer until his retirement in 1994 after a long and successful tenure.

In retirement, Ray—affectionately known as “Poppy” to his family—embraced life to the fullest. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, playing countless rounds of golf, fishing, traveling, and enjoying cruises with dear friends, the “Dirty Dozen.” Poppy had a deep love for jazz music, Steelers and Penn State football, and most of all, his family, who were the center of his world.

Ray was a proud member of the Beaver Creek Golf Club, the Elks Club, and the American Legion. He will be remembered for his gentle heart, patience, kindness, and steadfast devotion to those he loved.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia McCarthy Larsen, and his grandson, Joshua Cline. Poppy’s memory will live on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish his love and guidance.

Survived by his daughters Barb Rippeon (Jeff) and Crissy Cline, grandchildren Toni Lewis (Chad), Chris Fritts(Kaity), Matthew Metzger (Kim), Laura Rippeon, Amber Martin (Nick), Cody Rippeon and countless loved great grandchildren and his beloved golden retriever, Bella.

A graveside service will be held at Rest Haven Cemetery, 1601 Pennsylvania Ave, Hagerstown, Maryland, on Tuesday, August 26, at 11:00am.