Marlin P. Lafferty, 83, of Leesport, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025 in his residence. He was the widower of the late Mary Ann (Good) Lafferty. She died November 4, 2020.

Born in Lancaster, Marlin was the son of the late Jesse P. and Anna R. (Whiteman) Lafferty. He attended Garden Spot High School, class of 1959, and later graduated from the Institute of Biblical Studies in 1975. After serving with Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru) for 13 years, Marlin became a pastor. He served Bethany Evangelical Congregational Church in Leesport for 17 years from 1990-2007, and was later named pastor emeritus. More recently, he served the E.C. denomination as a regional director and stationing elder.

From humble roots, the Lord saw fit to use Marlin in ways he found surprising. Like Peter and John in Acts 4, he considered himself an "unschooled, ordinary man" who nevertheless was privileged to know Jesus. His ambition was expressed in Philippians 3:10: "I want to know Christ—the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings."

In addition to ministry, Marlin enjoyed golf, hunting, old movies, jigsaw puzzles, and online videos involving anything mechanical. He also loved to tease his friends; you knew you were his friend if he gave you a hard time!

He is survived by two sons: Greg (Deane) from Kennett Square, and Kevin (Julie), from Broomall; 8 grandchildren: Kelsey, Krista, Ryan, Jeniah, Justice, Jordan, Kurtis, and Brent; and one great-grandchild: Morgan. He was predeceased by two brothers: Jim and George.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11:00 am at Community Evangelical Church in Sinking Spring. A visitation will be held beforehand, from 9:30 to 11:00, and a reception will follow. Burial will be at Bridgeville E.C. Cemetery in Narvon. Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com