Larry Dale Cozort

Larry Dale Cozort, 77, of Topsail Beach and Morganton, N.C., passed away peacefully Thursday August 14, 2025 with his wife and daughter by his side.

Dale was born on April 22, 1948 in Burke County, to the late Stuart Lee Cozort and Mae Keever Cozort. He was retired from the State of North Carolina as a Drivers License Examiner. Dale had a passion for the outdoors, finding joy in hunting and fishing. He was also a dedicated sports enthusiast, following the NY Yankees and NC State.

Known for his loyalty and friendliness, Dale never met a stranger, making friends wherever he went. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Dale knew how to love, and he loved BIG.

For over 20 years, Dale was an active and dedicated member of Zion Memorial United Methodist Church, participating in the men’s group and manning the audio system. While at his home in Topsail, Dale attended Emma Anderson Memorial Chapel.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Stuart and Gary; his sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and George Clark; his sisters-in-law, Jane Cozort and Joanne Cozort; and his son-in-law Eric Cranford.

Surviving are his wife, Rachel Wray Cozort of the home; his daughter, Emily Cozort Cranford (Jeff); his sisters, Sybil (Jerry) Butler and Dottie (Ronnie) Fox; his brothers, Jack (Kathy) Cozort and Ben Cozort; and numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends that he adored and cherished spending time with; and his little boy dog, Colby Joe.

The family will receive friends on Thursday August 21, 2025 from 10:00-11:00 A.M. at Zion Memorial United Methodist Church.

The Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 A.M. in the sanctuary of Zion Memorial United Methodist Church, with Rev. Steve Pickard officiating. Entombment will follow at the Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum, with Rev. Buddy Corbin officiating.

Following the services, the family invites extended family and friends to join them for a meal and fellowship in the fellowship hall at Zion Memorial United Methodist Church.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Duke VAD team, Visiting Angels, Brookstone Living Center, and Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care during his illness.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Buchanan LVAD Fund, c/o Duke University Hospital 2301 Erwin Rd. VAD office, Box 3943 Durham, N.C. 27710.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is serving the Cozort family.