John Arvid Larson, Jr.

John Arvid Larson, Jr. of Hendersonville, TN, passed away on Sunday, March 3^rd, at the age of 76. He was born on February 1, 1948, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to John Arvid and Grace Larson.

John leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved spouse of fifty-five years, Judy Lynn; three children Joy (Daron) Hudspeth, Jennifer (Stephen) Walmer, and John (Brandy) Larson III; eleven grandchildren, Jordan, Sarah, Landon and Ashton Hudspeth; Laci, Savannah, Layna, and Farah Walmer; and Katelynn, Jaxson, and Kaden Larson. John also had two great-grandchildren, Amelia and Gentry Hudspeth.

He is survived by three siblings JoAnne Albin, Marilyn (John) McDonald, James (Joni) Larson, and brother-in-law Greg Taylor. He was preceded in death by his parents John Arvid and Grace, his sister Jean Taylor, and his brother-in-law, Noah Albin. In addition, John leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

John had such a wonderful childhood surrounded by many friends and relatives. Growing up in Minnesota, he was involved in numerous winter sports including skiing, ice-skating, hockey, and football.

In his junior year of high school, his grandfather, Reverend A.D. Urshan suggested that he go to Stockton, California for his senior year of high school and to attend Christian Life College (known at that time as Western Apostolic Bible College.) This was, most definitely, the will of God for John as he would soon meet the love of his life, Judy Sullivan, in Stockton.

John became a valued member of Christian Life Center (then known as First Pentecostal Church.) He served on the church board for over 30 years and was involved in multiple building programs for the Church, the Bible College and the Christian Academy. He had developed construction skills while in St Paul and working with his father in the construction of Apostolic Bible Institute. He was also Chairman of the Architectural Committee for CLC’s 6000 seat auditorium.

John was a proud Allstate Insurance Agent for 36 years developing a very successful agency in Stockton, California. He won innumerable awards and was privileged to travel extensively including many trips around the world.

John was a true Pastor’s friend and would do anything for his Shepherds. He loved being a part of the church and was a supporter of many ministers. John taught Sunday School at CLC for over 20 years including the New Believer’s Class which he enjoyed immensely. He also served on the Church Board at Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church and taught their Discipleship class.

In 2002, General Superintendent Kenneth F. Haney, requested that John serve on the Minister’s Retirement Board for the United Pentecostal Church International on which he had served until this past year. In addition, he served as Director of Development for Urshan Graduate School of Theology for three years.

Over the past few months, John commented many times on what a blessed life he had lived. He enjoyed life to the fullest and was incredibly thankful for an extensive network of friends and family. He fought a good fight, he finished the course, he kept the faith, and we have no doubt that he is now receiving his reward.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church 733 Old Dickerson Road Goodlettsville, Tennessee.  Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church.  Burial will take place following the service at Hendersonville Memory Gardens.