Megachurch Pastor Eddie Long Dies
- Updated Jan 16, 2017
Bishop Eddie Long, pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia passed away on Sunday, Jan. 15 after battling cancer.
“I am confident through my belief in God that my husband is now resting in a better place. 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," said Long’s widow, Vanessa Long.
Although beloved by many, Long was also a controversial figure, according to Raw Story. He was accused of having sex with four minors. He settled lawsuits from these allegations in 2011, but many maintain that Long was acquitted too easily.
On Twitter, some responded to Long’s death by calling him a “child mosester” and others said they hoped his death will allow more debates to take place about sexual abuse in the church.
Others expressed sorrow for Long’s family and said they were praying for the family and church congregation.
Long is survived by his wife and four children. He revealed last year that he was battling an aggressive form of cancer. He was 63 when he died.
Publication date: January 16, 2017
