Larry D. Depte

Larry Douglas Depte Sr. was born on June 8, 1950, in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, to Ortan and James Depte, Sr. He was the third of four sons. Long before the titles, executive offices, and national recognition, there was a young man from Coatesville with a powerful combination of intelligence, faith, determination, and an unwavering belief that greatness was possible.

Growing up on Merchant Street in Coatesville, Larry learned early that success was not something given—it was something earned. His foundation was built through his family, his faith at Second Baptist Church, his love of learning, and the discipline he developed as a student-athlete. He was an honor student at Coatesville Area Senior High School and a proud member of the Coatesville Red Raiders track program, competing in Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Outdoor Track. As a long-distance runner, he had the honor of competing at the prestigious Penn Relays, where he demonstrated the endurance and perseverance that would define his life.

Larry was a natural leader from a young age. He possessed a remarkable memory, an incredible curiosity, and a passion for knowledge. He was known for reciting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech word for word—reflecting not only his intelligence but his deep belief in equality, opportunity, and the responsibility to create a better future.

After graduating from Coatesville Area Senior High School, Larry attended Temple University, becoming the first person in his family to graduate from college. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in just three and a half years. While still in high school, Larry worked at Lukens Steel Mill and saved money to help fund his education, demonstrating the work ethic and determination that would carry him throughout his life.

While at Temple, Larry recognized the importance of creating opportunities for others. Seeing the limited representation of Black students, he became an advocate for change through peaceful protest and helped contribute to efforts that expanded access, support, and pathways to graduation for future generations.

After college, Larry began his professional career as a Certified Public Accountant with Coopers & Lybrand, one of the nation’s leading accounting firms. As one of the first Black accountants to help integrate the firm, he entered spaces where few looked like him and excelled through his intelligence, professionalism, and leadership. His expertise quickly earned him the respect of colleagues and clients, and he rose to lead teams of auditors while mastering the complexities of corporate finance.

In 1973, Larry helped establish the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), recognizing the need for Black accounting professionals to unite, support one another, and create greater opportunities within the profession. His commitment to opening doors for others became a lifelong mission.

Larry’s journey would eventually lead him from the world of accounting into the heart of American music history.

At only 29 years old, Larry became President of Philadelphia International Records (PIR) and TSOP Records, helping lead one of the most influential Black-owned record companies in history. Working alongside legendary owner/producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, Larry brought his financial expertise, business vision, and leadership to an organization that would define an era of music.

Under his leadership, Philadelphia International Records became home to some of the greatest artists and voices of all time, including Teddy Pendergrass, The O’Jays, Lou Rawls, Patti LaBelle, Billy Paul, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, The Three Degrees, The Jones Girls, Jean Carn, Phyllis Hyman, The Stylistics, Archie Bell & The Drells, The Intruders, MFSB (Mother Father Sister Brother), McFadden & Whitehead, People’s Choice, Dee Dee Sharp, The Dells, and many others.

During the height of PIR’s success, the label produced more than 170 Gold and Platinum records and helped define the Philadelphia Soul sound that continues to influence music generations later. Larry was not simply an executive behind the scenes—he was a visionary leader who helped protect, strengthen, and expand a cultural movement.

His influence extended beyond music. Larry was instrumental in the formation of the Black Music Association and helped bring together leaders and artists in celebration of Black music and achievement. The organization’s first anniversary was honored at the White House with President Jimmy Carter hosting members of the R&B music community for a historic celebration.

Never one to stop pursuing opportunities to uplift others, Larry later became Co-Founder and CEO of Correction Connection, Inc., a Philadelphia-based company that experienced extraordinary growth, building a nationwide network of more than 7,000 distributors in its first year. This achievement was recognized by the U.S. Department of Commerce at an awards ceremony at the U.S. Capitol. President Bush presented Larry with the award.

Larry continued his passion for helping people improve their lives through entrepreneurship and wellness. Alongside his beloved wife, LaVerne, he joined Herbalife, where they built a successful organization focused on health, personal development, and financial empowerment. Through their dedication and leadership, Larry and LaVerne became one of the first Black couples in the United States to achieve Herbalife’s prestigious Millionaire Team status.

Despite all of his professional accomplishments, Larry’s greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 42 years, LaVerne, and a loving father who cherished his children and family. Those closest to him knew him not only as a successful businessman, but as a man who loved deeply, laughed often, shared wisdom freely, and encouraged others to become the best versions of themselves.

Larry believed in dreaming boldly, working diligently, treating people with kindness and respect, never losing the importance of laughter. He challenged himself and those around him to pursue excellence while remaining grounded in faith and compassion.

After courageously living with an incurable illness for more than ten years, Larry Douglas Depte, Sr. peacefully transitioned on July 13, 2026. Larry lived a fulfilling life, especially hosting his family and friends' annual July cook-outs and Christmas parties in Blue Bell, PA. He enjoyed family staycations as well as the many vacations all over the world.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, LaVerne Depte; his children, Douglas Depte and Alyssa Depte Taylor; Ronald Pemberton, Jr. and Na’Imah Depte Beasley; his brother, Deacon Corinthian Depte; sisters-in-law, Crystal Depte, Pamela Depte, Marvine Depte, Deborah Reid, and Martha Reid; brother-in-law, Deacon George Reid Jr.; daughter-in-law, Lorisa Depte, sons-in-law, Richard M. Taylor III; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, extended family members, and lifelong friends. In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by two brothers, James Depte, Jr. and Timothy Depte, Sr.

Larry Douglas Depte Sr.’s legacy cannot be measured only by the companies he helped build, the barriers he broke, or the history he helped create. His legacy lives in every person he encouraged, every opportunity he created, every life he touched, and every generation inspired by his example. Coatesville gave him his roots: — Education gave him the tools — Faith gave him his wings. His life was a testament to what is possible when talent, perseverance, purpose, and love come together. Larry Depte Sr. did not simply witness history. He helped make it.

A public walk-through viewing will be held from 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Wright Funeral & Cremation Services, 725 Merchant Street, Coatesville, PA 19320.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Bethlehem Baptist Church, 712 Penllyn Pike, Spring House, PA 19477. A viewing will be held from 9:00 AM until 9:45 AM.

Click here on Saturday, August 15th at 9:45 AM EST to WATCH THE SERVICE LIVE on Zoom. Zoom Meeting ID: 846 9015 0438 Passcode: Wright

Condolences to be read should be faxed to 610-383-7523 or emailed to wrightfuneralsvs@aol.com by Friday, 4 pm 8/14/2026.

Family and friends may share condolences at the guestbook link on this memorial page where you may light a candle in his memory.

Potted plants in bloom can be ordered from Ambler Flower Shop, 215-646-6500.