Larry was born and raised in Abilene, and after graduating from Abilene High School, he served aboard a submarine in the Atlantic Fleet of the U.S. Navy. He then attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, was married to Dalena, and responded to the Lord’s summons into ministry. Larry received a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, and the Doctor of Ministry Degree from Logsdon Theological Seminary of Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene.

Over a span of 26 years Larry served as pastor in 4 rural churches, most recently for 16 years as the initial Pastor of Clearfork Baptist Church (a new church start in 2001, near Hawley), which subsequently became an ACBA partner church. In 2016 a retired Senior Pastor of Abilene asked Larry’s permission to recommend him to the ACBA for consideration to become the Director of Missions. And after being called to such, Larry has been privileged to serve as the Director of Missions for the association since July 2017.

Larry and Dalena have been married since 1981 and have 3 adult children and 7 grandchildren. Larry enjoys reading, farming, fishing and hunting, and getting acquainted with people who have yet to believe in Jesus Christ. Larry receives great pleasure in seeing what God does through God’s people, who are inspired and equipped by the Holy Spirit.

Kulani McDermett is married to Charles & they have 5 children & 2 grandchildren.  She enjoys gardening, reading all sorts of books, (but especially the Word) & spending time with her family.  Kulani has been both a preacher's kid & a pastor's wife & has insight into both of those worlds.  She also home schooled & graduated all 5 of her kids & has a heart for the home school community here in Abilene.  Please feel free to drop by & meet her in the office Monday-Thursday!