Missouri Press Association
Serving Missouri Newspapers Since 1867
Larry Gale Pearl, 76, Union Star, died Aug. 26, 2026, in a care facility in Stanberry.
Pearl graduated with his bachelor’s in secondary education for English journalism as part of the first class to receive “University” diplomas from the renamed Northwest Missouri State University. He spent a brief stint editing the newspaper in Plattsmouth, Neb.
He spent four years as a high school English and journalism instructor before returning to journalism professionally. He sold advertising for radio and print and was a freelance writer, as well as managed several newspapers in southern Iowa before returning to northwest Missouri, where he joined the staff of The Tri-County News in King City, while also teaching English and journalism at King City High School.
A decade later, he became owner and publisher of Tri-County News, continuing as a local journalist until health considerations forced his early retirement in 2010.
In addition to his wife, Belinda, he is survived by a son, Matt, who continues to operate the Tri-County News; a daughter, Laura; nine grandchildren; several siblings, niece and nephews; many extended family members; and even more friends.
