Larry Lewis Needham, Ph. D., 64, of Dahlonega, died Oct. 23, 2010.

Larry, and exemplary and distinguished employee of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 34 years, was honored to represent the CDC in its various endeavors throughout the world.

He was an avid golfer (having achieved his first hole in one, just a week prior), tennis player and sportsman.

He received his undergraduate degree in chemistry from Middle Tennessee State University, where he also played varsity basketball, prior to pursuing his graduate studies in the Organic Chemistry from the University of Georgia in Athens.

He was forever after an avid UGA advocate, fan and supporter. Following brief stints as a professor at Auburn University and within the private sector, Larry moved to Lilburn, where he settled for the following 30 years, while serving the CDC.

His father, William Glen Needham of Ullin, Ill. and Franklin, Tenn., preceded him in death.

He was a member of Dahlonega United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Doris L. Needham of Dahlonega; son, Lance L. Needham M.D., of Memphis, Tenn.; grandson, Loghan K. Needham of Memphis, Tenn.; mother, Erma Lee Needham Jones of Franklin, Tenn.; sister, Sharon Vaughn of Franklin, Tenn.; various other relatives also survive.

A memorial service was held at 4 p.m. Oct. 25 at Dahlonega United Methodist Church. A celebratory dinner was held at 5 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Achasta Golf & Community Clubhouse.

SouthCare Cremation Society and Memorial Centers in Alpharetta was in charge of the arrangements.