Podcast Summary: The Unforgotten – Episode 17: Rest in Peace, Larry

Date: July 7, 2025
Hosts: Carol Dawson & Wes Ferguson

Overview

This special episode is a heartfelt tribute to Larry Warrick, the chief investigator in the murder case of Shelly Watkins, which was covered extensively in Season 1 of The Unforgotten. With Larry's passing on June 26, 2025, the hosts reflect on his remarkable character, his pivotal role in the case, and his lasting impact not only on the investigation but also on those who worked alongside him. The episode also honors Christy, Larry’s wife and a central figure in the case, and touches upon the enduring connections between the investigative team and the people involved.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Remembering Larry Warrick: Heroic Investigator & Compassionate Human

• Introduction to Larry:

  • Carol and Wes recall their first meeting with Larry, which occurred when they arrived unannounced at his home ([00:57]–[02:02]).
  • Despite his battle with dementia, Larry recalled all the essential facts of Shelly's case and “never let this go… even though he sat by Shelly’s grave” ([03:06]–[03:26]).

• Larry’s Dedication:

  • Larry’s deep commitment to his work is noted, with Carol stating, “I got the impression that he poured his heart and soul into every case” ([03:42]).
  • Only two cases “haunted him to this degree” – one involving a baby, and the other, Shelly Watkins ([03:58]).

• Human Side of Law Enforcement:

  • The hosts stress Larry’s “open,” “affable” nature, rare for someone in law enforcement:

    “I cannot imagine meeting a more open person, especially somebody in law enforcement… just a good, good guy.” – Carol ([11:18]–[12:13])

2. Larry & Christy: A Partnership Forged in the Pursuit of Justice

• The First Meeting:

  • Upon their arrival, Larry greeted them enthusiastically:

    “Y’all come on in. What can I do for y’all? I would love to help you. That’s—I know who did it.” – Larry ([02:45]–[03:06])

  • He introduced the hosts to his dog and immediately offered his assistance.

• Their Relationship:

  • Carol and Wes recount the warmth between Larry and Christy, highlighted by moments such as Larry’s affectionate call to Christy:

    “Hey Siri, call Christy. Calling Christy, my one true love.” ([04:46]–[04:58])

  • Their shared experience through the investigation led to their eventual marriage a year later ([06:35]–[06:53]).

• Christy’s Role:

  • Christy was the 911 operator who took Sheldon’s emergency call—her detailed recollections contributed significantly to the case’s progression ([06:11]).
  • She juggled a demanding job and cared for Larry daily, showcased as an example of steadfast dedication ([09:28]–[09:56]).

3. The Human Cost & Connections of the Shelly Watkins Case

• Emotional Toll:

  • Larry’s habit of visiting Shelly’s grave, expressing sorrow for not resolving her case, illustrates the immense personal toll his work took ([03:26]–[03:42]).

• Law Enforcement’s True Faces:

  • The episode acknowledges criticisms of law enforcement while highlighting that Larry and Christy embody “dedicated public servants” who genuinely sought justice ([10:10]–[10:52]).

• Professional Legacy:

  • Larry’s impact extended beyond Henderson County; he eventually retired as Assistant Police Chief at Gun Barrel City, having “left a trail of good wherever he went” ([12:13]–[13:00]).

4. Insights on Other Key Figures

• Christy’s Childhood Memories of E. Ray Andrews:

  • Christy’s early encounters with the infamous lawyer E. Ray Andrews (who later went to prison for unrelated crimes) provided the team with a unique perspective on his character ([07:03]–[08:28]).
  • Her recollections added context to how Andrews’ “habits…doomed the initial case against Shelly’s husband, Jerry Mack Watkins” ([08:28]–[08:44]).

• Teamwork in the Pursuit of Justice:

  • Christy’s collaboration with the hosts spanned providing information, background, and connections, always demonstrating her continued investment in Shelly’s case ([10:52]–[11:18]).

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Larry’s Welcome:

  “Y’all come on in, and just set us down and just told us everything he could remember.”
  – Wes ([02:02])

• Larry’s Immediate Offer:

  “What can I do for y’all? I would love to help you. That’s—I know who did it. Y’all come on in.”
  – Larry ([02:45]–[03:06])

• On the Impact of the Case:

  “There were only two that haunted him to this degree, and one was a baby’s, and the other was Shelly.”
  – Carol ([03:42]–[03:58])

• On Larry’s Relationship with Christy:

  “Hey, Siri, call Christy. Calling Christy, my one true love.”
  – Larry ([04:46]–[04:58])

• On the Value of Public Service:

  “Their dedication and their honest devotion to what they do and their intention to truly serve the public, just very impressive.”
  – Carol ([10:10]–[10:52])

• Professional Praise:

  “He just left a trail of good wherever he went.”
  – Wes ([12:13]–[12:41])

Important Timestamps

• 00:57–02:02: First encounter with Larry Warrick and his immediate warmth
• 02:45–03:06: Larry’s first words to the hosts; willingness to help
• 03:26–03:58: Larry’s emotional tie to Shelly’s case and visits to her grave
• 04:46–04:58: Touching moment between Larry and Christy
• 06:11: Christy’s vital role as 911 operator
• 06:53: Larry and Christy’s eventual marriage
• 07:03–08:28: Christy’s memories of E. Ray Andrews
• 10:10–10:52: The value of genuine public servants
• 12:13–12:41: Larry’s career accomplishments and lasting influence

Conclusion

This episode is a moving remembrance of Larry Warrick—an emblem of integrity, dedication, and empathy in law enforcement. Alongside Christy, his partner in life and in the pursuit of justice, Larry’s tireless commitment to the memory of Shelly Watkins stands as his enduring legacy, both for those who knew him personally and for the listeners of The Unforgotten. The hosts offer their deepest condolences to Christy, celebrating both her and Larry as “heroes” who devoted themselves to seeking the truth, no matter the cost.