Reverend Dr. Lawrence A. Gilpin

Reverend Dr. Lawrence A. Gilpin, 66, of Aiken, South Carolina, was welcomed into heaven and the presence of his Savior on August 8, 2026.

Larry was born in Nashville, Tennessee, to the late Lawrence and Betty Brush Gilpin. He graduated from Madison High School in 1977, where he played basketball, was editor of the school newspaper, and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. After graduating from Augusta College in Augusta, Georgia, he answered God's call to pastoral ministry. He earned both a Master of Divinity (1986) and a Doctor of Ministry (2006) from Covenant Theological Seminary.

Over the course of 40 years of pastoral ministry, Larry faithfully served congregations in Newport, Tennessee; Monroeville, Alabama; Martinez, Georgia; and most recently, New Covenant Presbyterian Church in Aiken, South Carolina, where he honorably retired in 2025. His ministry was marked by a genuine care for people and a deep commitment to equip the church. He possessed a remarkable ability to listen with compassion and offer wise counsel and encouragement. Larry invested faithfully in other ministry leaders and enjoyed teaching courses at both Birmingham Theological Seminary (Montgomery, AL campus) and City View Seminary in Augusta, GA. He served as a trusted resource to pastors and churches navigating difficult seasons of ministry. His experience and wisdom were shared through his book, When Your Long Term Pastor Leaves Your Church.

Larry remained active throughout his life and was always eager to play a game, spend time at the beach, or visit his favorite places in Nashville. He loved sports, especially college basketball, and also found great joy in announcing local high school sporting events. Larry had a subtle wit and a remarkable ability to make everyday life more enjoyable. He had a unique gift for making people feel seen, heard, and genuinely valued.

Larry was a devoted husband, father, and servant of Christ. He cherished his family, loved the church deeply, and lived a life that reflected humility, faithfulness, and compassion. While he held many titles throughout his life, his greatest desire was to faithfully point others to the hope in Jesus Christ.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Mark Gilpin. He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Corley Hawkins Gilpin; his daughters, Emily Gilpin and Lauren Gilpin; his sister, Dr. Betsy Gilpin; as well as many extended family members and cherished friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the congregation of New Covenant Presbyterian Church for the extraordinary love, care, encouragement, and support they have shown, especially throughout this past year. They are also very thankful for the professional and compassionate care that they received from Trinity Hospice of Aiken.

The memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 526 Hitchcock Pkwy, Aiken, SC 29801, with Rev. Brad Rogers officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

At Larry’s request, the family asks that those attending his memorial service wear cheerful colors, as we grieve with the comfort and hope of heaven. 

“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” 

John 11:25.