Elder Larry Ray Cuffee, Sr.

On April 10, 2025, God called home one of His faithful soldiers from the Army of the Lord. Elder Larry Ray Cuffee, Sr., passed away peacefully in Virginia Beach, VA, while in rehab, at the age of 70. Though his body grew tired, his spirit remained strong, and he spent his final days surrounded by love, worship, and the presence of God.

Born on September 12, 1954, in Norfolk County, Virginia, Larry was the beloved son of the late Marrian Elizabeth Cuffee and Wiley Melvin Spence. A man of unwavering faith, he was affectionately known by many as the “praying man,” a name that truly reflected his life. Whether morning or midnight, Larry was always ready to pray, uplift, and stand in the gap for those in need.

Larry fought a long and courageous battle with heart failure. His final journey began on March 11, 2025, and for 30 days, he held on with incredible strength, believing in healing and restoration. While we hoped to see him return home whole and strong, God had greater plans—to bring him into eternal rest, fully healed and at peace.

A devoted servant, Larry faithfully led others as a licensed elder. He guided and protected his congregation with love, taught sound doctrine, and walked out his calling humbly and joyfully. His ministry was not limited to the church—Larry lived his faith out loud, touching countless lives through acts of kindness, spiritual guidance, and quiet service. He truly embodied what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

Larry also had a practical side, filled with skill and creativity. He earned his barber license from Jenkins Barber School and spent over 20 years at BR Flowers, in addition to more than 30 years working at the shipyard, specializing in marine decking. Even after stepping away from the shipyard over a decade ago, he continued doing side work with Amandla Construction LLC, always willing to lend his talents where needed.

From painting, roofing, and building, to simply cutting grass for neighbors, Larry was a man who may not have had much in material things, but gave freely from the well of his God-given gifts. His hands built, his words healed, and his prayers covered.

Larry also served our country as a proud Army veteran, including one tour in Germany. His strength, discipline, and heart for service extended beyond the military, weaving through every part of his life.

He was preceded in death by his loving mother and father, Marrian Elizabeth Cuffee and Wiley  Melvin Spence; his daughter Elianna Cuffee; brothers Melvin Spence and Roger Spence; and his sister Phyllis Wilson.

To carry on his legacy, he leaves to mourn his children: Monkesha Harris, Larry Ray Cuffee, Jr., Kimberly Cuffee, Teaster (Corey) Moore, Roscoe Freeman, and Makayla Cuffee. Grandchildren: Destiny and Kaeylah Harris, Kamryn and KaiLee Lassiter, Amia and Corey Moore, Jr., Nathaniel Freeman, Kehlani Cuffee; and one great-granddaughter, Genesis Button.

He is also survived by six sisters: Kay, Patricia, Glenda, Betty, Janelle Spence, and Brenda Manley (Jerry); and five brothers: Mac Spence (Paula), Roney Spence, Marcus Jordan (Natiya), Ralph (Cynthia) Cuffee, and Donnell (Bobbie Jo) Cuffee. Special family friend Regina Moss and Mark Weaver. Larry leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and dear friends who loved him deeply and were touched by his life and legacy.

He was a father, grandfather, teacher, neighbor, mentor, and friend. Those who knew Larry knew a man of peace, prayer, and purpose. Many are called, but few are chosen—and even fewer are willing to walk in their calling with the kind of humility, strength, and love Larry carried.

He leaves behind not just memories, but a movement of faith—seeds planted in hearts that will grow for generations to come.

Well done, good and faithful servant.