Lorenzo J. "Larry" Grill

Lorenzo J. "Larry" Grill, 74, of Franklin, passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026 at UPMC Hamot after battling ongoing health issues. Known as a family man, dedicated coach, educator, and sports enthusiast, he will be dearly missed by his family and the community.On September 9, 1951, Larry was born in Franklin to the late Guy A. and Margie J. Shawgo Grill. While growing up in the area, he attended St. Patrick's Elementary School and was a 1969 graduate of Franklin Area High School. Larry pursued higher education at Clarion University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Education.A true Franklinite at heart, Larry used his talents to serve his community. He became a teacher and mentor for countless students in the area. Through his 20 year career with the Franklin Area School District, he worked with children with disabilities and was a versatile sports coach. His dedication to his students helped them excel and develop the skills they needed to succeed. Larry's involvement with Franklin athletic programs covered all the bases; He served all age groups from early youth to high school level in girls & boys basketball, football, softball, soccer, baseball, and even maintained the city swimming pool and ball fields at Miller Sibley. Larry also served as the color commentator for WFRA radio, announcing many local sporting events.He managed to serve on just about every athletic program board and was an essential member of local YMCA sports tournaments and the Franklin School District Rural Basketball Program serving Utica, Victory, and Polk elementary schools. Larry was involved with the Franklin Little League for many years, serving a stint as president. He valued our community's youth and the opportunities available to them. He used to say, "Never Complain, Work Hard, and Always Do Your Best"In his personal time, Larry was an avid sportsman who loved being an active league helper at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course and participating in the Eagles, Elks, and Senior's golf leagues. He also enjoyed the Elks duckpin bowling league.Additionally, Larry was a lifelong Steelers fan and season ticket holder. He attended multiple Super Bowls and World Series games and shared his love for the "big game" atmosphere with friends and family. He enjoyed going to watch Pirates games at Forbes Field and then Three Rivers Stadium and PNC Park. His favorite Pirate was Roberto Clemente and he even named his dog after him.In retirement, he was the ultimate "Papa", dedicating his time to his grandchildren, serving as the "preschool chauffeur" and their biggest fan at every sporting event. His children remember him for his quiet strengths as a devoted father and provider, even working up to three jobs at a time to ensure his children could pursue their own athletic dreams, wherever they took them.Family left to remember Larry in love are his daughter Shannon (Michael), son Joseph (Kiernan), son Shaun, and son Jason (Kate). His cherished grandchildren include Blakely, Grady, Madison, Maybrie, Emeline, Lewes, Maddock, Callum, Makenzee, and Rylee.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Melissa McMurray and her husband Terry.There will be no funeral services at this time.A memorial event for family and friends will be held at a later date.Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Huff-Guthrie Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 312 W Park St. Franklin, PA 16323.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Larry's name to the Venango County Men's Softball League C/O Ryan Wimer at 300 Mill Rd. Grove City, PA 16127 or the Cranberry Lady Berries Basketball Booster Association at 3 Education Drive Seneca, PA 16346.Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.huffguthrie.com.