Lawrence R. “Gunny” Rodriguez
Larry was born in Santa Barbara, California on August 10, 1951. He was raised in a large family and grew up on the East side of Santa Barbara. He attended local schools including Santa Barbara High school (once a Don always a Don). Larry joined the United States Marine Corps. The Marines molded a good man into an even better man teaching him life skills which exemplified the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and dedication to family, friends, country, and community. Larry completed several “tours” separating for a short time to work in Santa Barbara at a local detective agency. He then reenlisted back into the Marine Corps for several more years.
Larry left active Marine Corps service to transition to the Marine Corps Reserve and then to the National Guard Reserve to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a law enforcement officer for the Santa Barbara Police Department (SBPD). At SBPD, Larry obtained another life goal of becoming a motor officer, a position he coveted for many years.
Larry, also known as “Gunny,” brought steady leadership, fairness, and a deep understanding of his responsibility to the community he served and to those around him. He was the recipient of the most prestigious H. Thomas Guerry award for Valor.
After 20 plus years, Larry retired from the SBPD and joined the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office (SBSO). The Three Amigos, including treasured lifelong friend Bill Henebry and much valued friend Patrick Lennon pledged to work together at the SBSO. Larry and Bill faithfully worked as detectives for many years. Larry also became a valued member of SBSO Forensics team. He was a mentor always ready to help no matter the time, place, or circumstance. Those who knew and served alongside him recognized the depth of his character, the strength of his principles, and the unwavering commitment to justice.
Larry always put the needs of his community, colleagues, and department foremost. I remember a time during the Los Angeles riots (1994) Larry being activated and deployed through the military reserves to protect lives and property in the Los Angeles area during the rioting and looting that was occurring. I found him in command of his team at a bank parking lot in downtown Los Angeles. He looked tired and I asked him if he had anything to eat to which he replied that they had been on the go for more than 24 hours. I then went to the nearest command post and picked up a sandwich, chips, and a drink. I returned and as I handed these food items to Larry, he politely told me, “I can’t eat until the men and women in my company eat.” I looked at him for a few seconds and then it hit me, of course, he always put others before himself. His legacy is that of a true and trusted leader. He always made sure his team was taken care of before himself. I returned to the command post and heavily stocked up the car and returned to feed all of his team.
Larry was a long-time member of the Elks Lodge #1538, in Santa Maria. He was also a member of the Hesperian Masonic Lodge #262. Upon retirement, Larry moved to Saint George, Utah. He joined the Masonic Lodge there and continued to rise through the higher echelons of the Masons, reaching positions he held sacred and would be too humble to name unless asked.
Larry wore many titles: son, father, husband, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, educator, motor officer, forensic detective, drill Instructor, and mentor. Larry was preceded in death by both his parents, his sister Della, brothers Martin, Nester, Joe, and Tony, as well as the mother of his son and daughter.
Larry is survived by his wife Keri Rodriguez, his beloved daughter, Diane Johnson (Matthew); beloved son, Larry Rodriguez Jr., (Johanna); his younger sister Teresa; his younger brother Paul; and six precious grandchildren.
Larry was laid to rest at the Cedar City Cemetery, 685 North Main Street, Cedar City, Utah on Thursday, March 20, 2025. His precious daughter & son, as well as close friends released balloons to heaven, from their respective States, in the colors of blue, green, and gold in honor of a great man and father, his life in law enforcement, and service to his Country.
A memorial service is to take place in St. George Utah on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 1300 hours, at the Masonic Lodge #33, 262 S. Mall Dr., St. George, UT, organized by fellow Mason and much esteemed friend, Paul Erickson, with whom Larry travelled to many Masonic events.
Larry’s passing on March 14, 2025, was an enormous loss to his family, friends, and to the “family” of SBSO/SBPD. His beautiful daughter Diane said of her father, “He’s a very giving and humble person. He would give the shirt off his back.” He lived by The Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Deepest respect and condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His grace, ethics, dedication, and legacy of service will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Lawrence R. “Gunny” Rodriguez a giant among men.
