Bishop Larry Powers, age 80, entered into the presence of the Lord in Ocala, Florida on January 23, 2026. Born March 14, 1945, in Loyall, Kentucky. Larry lived a life marked by steady faith, deep humility, and a quiet strength that drew people in and pointed them upward.
For five decades, Larry served faithfully as a Church of God Pastor. His ministry was shaped by an unwavering commitment to the Great Commission and the Great Commandment. He loved God wholeheartedly and loved people genuinely. He did not seek recognition for himself. Instead, he offered counsel, encouragement, and a listening ear, always intent on strengthening others and directing hearts toward Christ. In every season, he modeled gratitude, conviction, and a heart that made room for others.
Outside of ministry, Larry found great joy in his family, simple gifts and shared moments. He loved studying the word of God, reading the newspaper, watching and analyzing University of Kentucky basketball, playing tennis, discussing seasonal fruits, lawn care, breakfast with family and friends, and letting others know they were loved and appreciated.
Those who knew Larry remember a man of integrity and strong faith, consistent in his walk and sincere in his care for others. His life was not defined by performance, but by devotion. Larry was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his family well and left a legacy of steadfast leadership, compassion, and grace that will continue to shape generations. Larry lived with the assurance that this life is not the end, but a journey toward a heavenly home.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Varita Powers; his eldest son, Lance Powers (wife Albina Powers); his son, Jon Powers (wife Ruth Powers); his daughter, Chara Celano (husband David Celano); and his brothers, Charles Powers (wife Wendy Powers) and Clark Powers (wife Elayne Powers). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Emma Powers, Andrew Powers, Madelyn Powers, Shawn McClanahan, Grace Powers, Michael Powers, Zachari Powers, Ariah Powers, Cole Celano, Ella Celano, and Olivia Celano.
While we grieve his passing, we also give thanks for a life well lived, for the many lives he touched through faithful service, and for the hope he held with confidence. Larry’s race is complete. His faith is now sight.
Public visitation will be held January 31, 2026 at 2:00 PM, and the Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 PM at Connections Church of God, 416 S US Highway 41, Inverness, FL 34450. Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home of Inverness is serving the family.
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I’ll always remember Larry for his tender heart and kindness; our whole family loved him and Varita; both such dear friends. I will always remember going into his office to discuss something in the bible; it was GREAT! Heaven is richer today having this Saint of God in her midst. To all those near to this dear man, I extend my love and prayers to you and yours; may God our Father strengthen and comfort you all the days that lay ahead, until we are all there together in that Heavenly City with Jesus, our Father and with all our love ones, who have gone on before us…All my love in Christ, Stan
Pastor Powers was a wonderful man and a faithful servant of God. We will miss him as we look forward to being reunited with him in Heaven for all of eternity.
I’ll never forget the legacy of this great man of integrity. Pastor Powers and his wife Varita welcomed out family into their church family. I learned so much about my relationship with the Lions and about God’s everlasting love and forgiveness. My prayers are with the family and all of those who are mourning. May God grant each and everyone you the strength courage and wisdom during this difficult time.. In Jesus name, Amen.
When I first encountered Pastor Powers I was only 12 years old and after hearing him preach I was convinced he was a true man of God. Forty years later I still very much echo the same feelings that he is a man of God. He had always been very genuine, caring, loving, and had a huge heart. A true servant’s heart for all. He led many to Christ. I will never forget him. He was an awesome man of God and an example we all should strive to be like in life. I know he is dancing in the fields of grace with Jesus.
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