Larry Justice

July 13, 1947 ~ June 30, 2025 Larry Justice, past-president of the Santa Fe Trail Association, passed away on June 30, 2025. Justice was appointed to the Santa Fe Trail Association board of directors in September 2009 and was re-elected in 2019. In 2013, Larry was elected as President of the Santa Fe Trail Association and served in that capacity through 2019.

During his tenure as President the Association was actively involved with the planning and celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the National Trails System Act, the development of the Rock Creek Crossing Trail on the Della Orton property east of Council Grove, and the pre-planning for the 200th commemoration of the opening of the Santa Fe Trail to trade. Justice also provided guidance and leadership on several committees including membership, publications and budget. His friendship and leadership were valued by many.

A notable quote by Justice occurred in the May 2018 edition of Wagon Tracks when he wrote, “. . . I hope we never lose sight of the need to fund and encourage research and education. Those who carved the path known as the Santa Fe Trail Association realized the need for diligent research. Our purpose is to preserve, promote, and protect the legacy of the Trail. . . ”

A memorial service will be held for Larry Justice at 2 p.m., on Monday, August 4 at First Presbyterian Church in Derby, Kansas. Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church quilting group in Derby, KS, NWOSU BCM(BSU) in Alva, OK or Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita.