In loving memory of Luther Lawrence Winchester, 84, who passed away peacefully in Astor, Florida, on May 14, 2025.
Luther was born on December 15, 1940, in Albany, New York, the son of Luther and Nonie Winchester. He married Joan Elizabeth Logue on July 19, 1964, and together they shared many years of love.
After a period working in the family printing business, Luther enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served as a dog handler in the Military Police, with duty at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas. He was recalled to duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following his military service, he joined the New York State Conservation Department, working at Thacher Park. He later began a long and distinguished career with the Town of Colonie Police Department, retiring as a lieutenant after 30 years of service.
Luther, also known as Larry, was a knowledgeable and passionate enthusiast with a wide range of interests, especially motorcycles and firearms. He was actively involved in numerous clubs and organizations, where he generously shared his knowledge, taught others, and advocated for safety. He helped establish the Colonie Police Motorcycle Unit and was instrumental in creating a Motorcycle Safety Foundation riding school in Colonie.
He had a lifelong love of the outdoors-particularly fishing, hunting, camping, and birdwatching. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends in the Adirondacks, the Green Mountains, Long Island, and Cape Cod. In his later years, he found peace at “Hector’s Perch,” a quiet spot in the floodplain of the St. Johns River, where he fed the birds, toured the river by boat, and welcomed family and friends.
His voicemail famously said, “I’m out fishing”.
Luther is survived by his daughter, Dawn (husband Bill); sons, Larry (wife Seana, son Lawson) and Dan (wife Bonnie); and his brother, Lee (wife Kay). He also leaves behind nephews David (wife Katherine), Jon (wife Francie, daughter Nellie, and son Jack), and James (wife Kate), along with many friends and former colleagues. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan.
A private celebration of his life will take place at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Luther Lawrence Winchester to the following organizations: Maxfield Community Food Pantry at PO Box 490, Lake Luzerne, NY 12846, or Astor Community Radio, WMCW 97.7 FM at 56005 Blue Creek Rd., Astor, FL 32102.