Reverend Larry R. Elenbaum

Reverend Larry R. Elenbaum, of Charlotte, North Carolina, died on July 12, 2026, at the age of 74. He was born on September 20, 1951, in Cass City, Michigan, to the late Ralph Eugene Elenbaum and Marion Morris. A faith-filled, loving, and intelligent man, he lived a life marked by devotion to Christ, steadfast service, and a deep love for his family and church.

Larry spent most of his life in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, where he became known for his warm presence, thoughtful mind, and unwavering commitment to the Christian faith. He pursued his education with diligence and purpose, attending Columbia Bible College before continuing his theological training at Westminster Theological Seminary, where he received both his MAR and MDiv. He later studied at Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry and earned a Doctor of Ministry from Oxford University. His love of learning remained with him throughout his life, and he delighted in discovering new ideas, engaging in meaningful conversation, and growing in wisdom.

For 37 years, Reverend Elenbaum faithfully served as pastor at Christ Presbyterian Church in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. His ministry touched countless lives through preaching, pastoral care, prayer, and a sincere desire to point others toward the hope of the Gospel. He was a shepherd to his congregation in the truest sense, offering encouragement in times of joy and comfort in seasons of sorrow. Those who knew him will remember his steady faith, his thoughtful counsel, and the sincerity with which he lived out his calling.

On November 20, 1982, Larry married his beloved wife, Betsy Lythgoe Davis, and together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. He cherished his role as husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He is survived by his wife, Betsy; his son Bryan Schneider and his wife, Alissa Bragdon; his son Drew Schneider and his wife, Casey Baker; and his daughter Stephanie Schneider Dennison and her husband, Jeffrey Dennison. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Davis and Palmer Schneider, Ryan and Caleb Schneider, and Ellie, Tyler, Graham, and Samantha Dennison, each of whom brought him great pride and joy.

He is also survived by his siblings, Ralph Elenbaum and his wife, Karen; Gale Elenbaum and his wife, Eileen; Lori Elsner and her husband, Bob; Kathleen Borden; and James Offner and his wife, Pat. He is further remembered by 12 nieces and nephews, all of whom were blessed by his kindness, humor, and steady affection. Larry valued family deeply and found great happiness in spending time with those he loved. He enjoyed the fellowship of friends and church family, and he treasured the simple, meaningful moments that made up a life well lived.

Reverend Elenbaum’s life was guided by his faith and by the words of Scripture that so aptly reflected his hope and conviction, “To live is Christ, but to die is gain!” from Philippians 1:21. That verse expressed the heart of a man who trusted God fully and faced eternity with confidence in Christ. His legacy will endure in the lives he touched, the sermons he preached, the counsel he offered, and the love he shared so generously.

He will be remembered with gratitude and affection by all who knew him. His family and friends mourn his passing while giving thanks for a life of purpose, devotion, and grace. Reverend Larry R. Elenbaum leaves behind a lasting witness of faithfulness, and his memory will continue to inspire those who were privileged to walk alongside him.

Murphy Funeral and Cremation Services is deeply honored to support the Elenbaum family as they remember and celebrate a cherished life.