Keith Alfred Larson (67) of Kernersville, North Carolina, unexpectedly passed away peacefully in his home on April 17, 2025. 

Keith was born in Pottstown, PA to the late Alfred and Doris Larson. His passion was music from a very young age. Keith attended the University of Alabama where he met his beloved wife of 42 years, Brenda Wells Larson. Keith and Brenda built an exciting life together filled with entrepreneurship and world travels. We rejoice that Keith and Brenda are together again in Heaven. 

Keith was known as a brilliant educator, composer, performer, author, and music director. While Keith excelled in all things percussion, his passion was teaching. Countless students were transformed into incredible musicians under Keith’s instruction, many pursuing careers in the percussive arts. Keith taught for over fifty years, perfecting a “total percussion” approach that gave students the skills to play any instrument in the percussion family. Keith poured himself into his students, many of whom came to him through Keith Larson School of Percussion in Overland Park, Kansas; Kansas City Youth Percussion Ensemble of the Kansas City area, and Triad Total Percussion in Greensboro, North Carolina. 

In 2016, Keith moved to North Carolina to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren. Keith enjoyed time with his family, regularly having the grandkids over for pizza nights and giving them free reign of the beautiful backyard that he had set up specifically for them. 

Keith is survived by his son, Kurtis Larson and wife Sinead of Toronto, Canada; his daughter, Karly Larimore and husband Daniel of Lexington, NC; five grandchildren of Lexington, NC; three grandchildren of Toronto, Canada; his dearest friend Jennifer Batson and honorary granddaughter Idgie of Greensboro, NC and other family and friends that he cared for deeply. 

The family has decided to hold a private ceremony to honor Keith at a later date. They thank you for your prayers during this difficult time.