Dr. Larry Gilmore

Dr. Larry L. Gilmore, 77, of Gallatin, Tennessee, entered his heavenly home on March 1, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and friend, Larry dedicated his life to sharing not only the gospel of Jesus Christ but his entire life also.

Born in Evansville, Indiana, on January 28, 1948, Larry recognized early in life that God had called him to ministry. After graduating from Tillman High School in Paducah, Kentucky, in 1966, he pursued his passion for the gospel, earning a bachelor's degree from Georgetown College in 1970. His theological education continued at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he received a Master of Divinity in 1974, followed by a Doctor of Ministry from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1980.

On August 30, 1969, Larry married the love of his life, Linda Kay Harris, at First Baptist Church of Murray, Kentucky. Together, they faithfully served the Lord, embarking on a lifelong ministry that spanned multiple states and touched countless lives. Larry pastored churches in Kentucky, Texas, and Illinois before being called by the First Baptist Church of Gallatin to establish a new church to reach the growing communities across town. In October 1976, alongside a small but committed group, he founded College Heights Baptist Church. Under his leadership, the church flourished, and in 1986, he guided the establishment of College Heights Christian Academy, further expanding its impact for the Kingdom.

As a pastor respected across the state, Larry was elected President of the Tennessee Baptist Convention in 1998 and later served as State Director of Evangelism for the Executive Board of the Tennessee Baptist Convention from 2003 until his retirement from full-time ministry in 2012. Even in retirement, he remained dedicated to his calling, serving as an interim pastor for churches in Kentucky and throughout Tennessee.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Don Gilmore, and his mother, Doris Gilmore.

He is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Linda; his children, Charis Brown (William) and Josh Gilmore (Michelle); and his brothers, Don Gilmore (Debbie) and Dan Gilmore (Mary). He leaves behind a lasting legacy in his beloved grandchildren: Aiden, Feven, Hayes, Liam, Hallie, and Nate. His memory will be cherished by Amanda Benedict (Ryan), Lexi, Owen, Hudson, and Everleigh.

Larry’s greatest legacy is found in the countless lives he led to Christ, discipled, and poured into with love and wisdom. His impact extends far beyond the churches he pastored—it lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A member of the First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, Larry was a man of genuine faith, generosity, and compassion. He treasured time with his family, immersed himself in God’s Word, and never missed an opportunity to share the gospel. He also found joy in life’s adventures—riding his Harley, pulling tubers behind a ski boat, and making memories with those he loved most.

Visitation will be held at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Gallatin on Friday, March 7, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, and at First Baptist Church of Hendersonville on Saturday, March 8, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

A service to celebrate his life will follow at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 8, at First Baptist Church of Hendersonville.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to continue Larry’s investment in the health and growth of young pastors through “FBC Essentials,” a ministry of First Baptist Church, Hendersonville. Donations may be made to FBC Hendersonville (fbchville.com) with “FBC Essentials” in the memo. 

Though he has left this earthly home, his faith, love, and gospel legacy will endure for generations to come.