Rev. Gary Livingston

Rev. Gary Landis Livingston, age 76, of Cedartown, GA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 6, 2022 surrounded by his loving family.

Rev. Livingston was born on July 9, 1945 in Johnson City, TN, to his parents: Joseph B. Livingston and Mary G. Livingston. At the young age of 18, Gary began his ministry through evangelism with his brother, Dean Livingston. For two years, they travelled across the country singing and preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. From 1965 to 1967, Gary served his country in the United States Army. On June 17, 1967, he married the love of his life, Brenda Bonds, to whom he was married for 54 years.

In 1973, Gary, Brenda, and their son, Greg, established First Apostolic Church of Rome near Mount Alto in Rome, Georgia. In 1978, the church purchased property and built the sanctuary at 3213 Cave Spring Road. The church flourished and the Family Life Center was built in 2003 to accommodate the growing student ministries. Under Gary’s leadership, countless people came to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Though he was committed to his congregation, his greatest joy in life was his family. To his wife, he was her best friend. To his son and daughter-in-love, Ricki, he was a wise and caring dad. For the last three decades, he was known as PaPaw. He cherished the time with his grandsons, Alex and Connor. This love extended with the addition of a granddaughter-in-love, Beth, and great-grandsons Andy, Liam and Colby.

His humor and quick wit always brought laughter, no matter how difficult the circumstances. His integrity and humble character were unmatched. He always had a kind and encouraging word for everyone he met, offered with a peaceful, gentle spirit.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers: Rev. Darrell Livingston and Rev. Dean Livingston.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Brenda Bonds Livingston, son, Rev. Greg Livingston and his wife, Ricki. He is also survived by grandchildren: Connor Livingston, Alex Livingston and his wife, Beth, great-grandchildren: Andy Livingston, Liam Livingston and Colby Livingston, brother, Dwight Livingston and his wife, Jeannie, sister, Marsha Linkous and her husband, Steve and a number of loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

In keeping with the family’s wishes and due to Covid restrictions, a private service for the family will be held. The service will be officiated by Rev. Greg Livingston with eulogies presented by Alex Livingston, Connor Livingston, and Rev. Gary Sheriff. “Paw”-bearers include, Alex Livingston, Connor Livingston, Rodd Loudermilk, Alan Loudermilk, Carl Gable, Johnny Gable, and Johnny Worthy. A celebration of his life will be scheduled at a later time for everyone who loved him.

The Smith & Miller Funeral Home is honored to care for the family of Rev. Gary Landis Livingston.