New Birth Missionary Baptist Church’s senior pastor Eddie L. Long has died, after being hospitalized for a serious ailment. The church has confirmed that the longtime pastor passed away today, Sunday, January 15th, 2017.
In a statement issued by the church, the congregation revealed that Bishop long suffered from an “aggressive” form of cancer, which many saw the results in the last pictures that surfaced of Long from the pulpit appearing strikingly different and drastically smaller.
Eddie Long started as a pastor at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in DeKalb County, Georgia, almost two decades ago and experienced rapid growth over the years.
“As a man of God and unyielding faith, Bishop Long maintained his commitment to our Heavenly Father as he proclaimed that cancer would not kill his faith or his spirit,” an announcement released by the church said.
Bishop Long is survived by his wife of 27 years, First Lady Elder Vanessa Long, four children: Eric, Edward, Jared and Taylor and three grandchildren.
“I am confidant through my belief in God that my husband is now resting in a better place,”First Lady Edler Long said. “Although, his transition leaves a void for those of us who loved him dearly, we can celebrate and be happy for him, knowing he’s at peace.”
Bishop Long was 63.
