Lawrence “Larry” Bossidy, Acclaimed Corporate Leader and Former AlliedSignal CEO, Dies at 90 in Ridgefield
Ridgefield, CT — Lawrence A. “Larry” Bossidy, a formidable figure in American business who guided AlliedSignal through one of its most successful transformations and later helped shape Honeywell’s modern identity, died peacefully at his Ridgefield home on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. He was 90 years old.
Widely respected for his rigorous management philosophy and operational discipline, Bossidy played a pivotal role in shaping late 20th-century corporate leadership. Known for his sharp focus on performance and execution, his decades-long influence extended well beyond the boardroom, leaving a lasting imprint on how organizations approach strategy, accountability, and results.
Born on March 5, 1935, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Larry graduated from Colgate University in 1957 with a degree in economics. Though he briefly considered a career in professional baseball, he instead joined General Electric, where he rose through the ranks during a 34-year tenure. Eventually serving as vice chairman of GE, he became a trusted lieutenant to CEO Jack Welch and a key architect of GE’s performance-driven culture.
In 1991, Bossidy took the reins at AlliedSignal as chairman and CEO, embarking on a bold mission to revitalize the aerospace and industrial giant. His leadership style—marked by relentless focus, clear accountability, and operational precision—earned him national recognition. Under his guidance, AlliedSignal underwent major cost-cutting initiatives, integrated Six Sigma quality practices, and saw significant financial growth.
His most high-profile move came in 1999 when AlliedSignal acquired Honeywell and adopted its name, creating one of the world’s largest technology and manufacturing companies. Though he briefly retired in 2000, Bossidy returned the following year to stabilize the company during a turbulent time, ultimately stepping down in 2002.
In addition to his corporate legacy, Bossidy is perhaps best known to many for co-authoring the bestselling business book Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done, which remains a staple in executive education and MBA programs. The book emphasized practical leadership over theory and has shaped the thinking of countless professionals across industries.
Beyond his boardroom achievements, Bossidy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was married to Nancy Jo (Rodhouse) Bossidy, who preceded him in death. Together, they raised a large and loving family in Ridgefield, where Larry was active in the local community and a longtime parishioner at Saint Mary’s Church. His faith, family values, and mentorship of younger leaders reflected the same integrity he demanded in business.
Visitation and Funeral Services
Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Kane Funeral Home, 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Saint Mary’s Church, 55 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. Interment will follow privately.
Larry Bossidy’s influence endures—not only through the companies he led or the executives he mentored but through the enduring philosophy that leaders must drive action, not just ideas. His legacy is one of high standards, clear thinking, and the courage to get things done.
The Bossidy family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Saint Mary’s Church or Ridgefield-based youth education initiatives in Larry’s honor.