Bishop Larry S. Sherrill, Sr.

Larry Steven Sherrill, 76, passed away peacefully at The Christian Village at Mt. Healthy on Sunday, August 16, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Beulah Sherrill; his brother, William Sheridan Sherrill; his beloved wife, Betty Sherrill; and his daughter, Kim Bishop. His passing marks the transition of a devoted father, brother, mentor, and servant whose life touched countless people across communities and generations. To all who knew him, Larry was truly one-of-a-kind—a rare soul whose compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith left an imprint that will never fade.

Born on March 27, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, Larry was the fourth child of Leroy and Beulah Sherrill. At the age of two, his family relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio, where his early introduction to the Pentecostal faith shaped the foundation of his lifelong commitment to ministry and service.

Larry’s spiritual journey began under the leadership of Abraham Swanson until age seventeen. He later joined The House of God under Pastor F.M. Mincey Holiday, where he embraced the Sabbath and, at eighteen, received the Holy Ghost. He was baptized by S.L. Henry, marking the beginning of a lifelong devotion to ministry.

From 1967 to 1971, he served faithfully as a deacon. He worked alongside Bishop Robert A. Campbell as an Assistant Pastor. In the late 1970s, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio, serving with Bishop Leland France, who ordained him as Bishop in 1979. In 1980, he founded Bethel Temple, taking his first steps as a pastor.

In 1991, Bishop F.C. Scott asked him to continue the work of a beloved pastor in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where Larry served with distinction for many years. His work extended beyond the pulpit—he helped establish Bea’s Kids & Kompany, a childcare center that strengthened the community.

Larry was known for his unwavering commitment to God’s house. He and his family made countless sacrifices to ensure that the saints received the very best. A seasoned musician, teacher, and scholar, he devoted himself to studying the Word of God and biblical history, enriching his sermons with depth and clarity.

In 2011, he answered the call to return home to Cincinnati to “rescue some of God’s people.” Under his leadership, Refuge Temple grew into a loving community grateful for his compassion, wisdom, and care.

Larry attended South Avondale Grade School, Samuel Ach Junior High, Schwab Junior High, Aiken Senior High, Community Center Remote Access, and Cleveland State University. Among his greatest achievements was earning his Doctor of Divinity Degree and serving as a board member for the Kentucky College of Contemporary Religion.

Larry Steven Sherrill leaves behind a legacy of faith, scholarship, music, leadership, and love. His life’s work continues through the churches he built, the leaders he mentored, the music he taught, and the countless lives he touched. His memory will forever be cherished by his family, his congregations, and all who were blessed to know him.

Larry is lovingly remembered by his brothers Roy Sherrill and Anthony (Loretta) Sherrill; and his sisters Iva Edwards and Mildred Sherrill.

His legacy continues through his beloved children, born to two unions: From his union with Catherine Mincey: Larry Steven Sherrill Jr. (Diona) and Alecia Ann Boswell. From his union with Denise King: Larry Damon Sherrill and Michael Sherrill. Bonus son gained through his union with Betty: Byron P. Swift (Alicia I.).

He is cherished by his grandchildren: Clyde Bernard Boswell III, Demetrius Devin Boswell (Ciara Alexis), Issac Malachi Boswell, Jayden Michael Boswell, Kalia Mari’ana Boswell, Leila Maia Boswell, Larry Steven Sherrill IV, Prince Sherrill, Brooklynn Sherrill, Christian Sherrill, Jordan Sherrill, Tyson Sherrill, Kennedi Sherrill, Hennessy Bishop, Jayden Bishop-Massie, Cartiae Carter, Aaliyah Swift, and Alayna Swift. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces, nephews, extended family, a host of friends, and his long-standing friend Elder Thomas Shelton, all of whom deeply valued his guidance, kindness, and love.

May he rest in eternal peace.

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