Bishop Eddie Long dies from cancer at age 63

Bishop Eddie Long, a pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia, has died at the age of 63 on Sunday. The pastor had succcumbed to an aggressive form of cancer, according to a statement from the church.

Rumors about Long's failing health began circulating after he posted a video showing his dramatic weight loss. Last September, Long had announced that he was going through a "health challenge," but he did not mention anything specific about his illness.

Just weeks before his passing, the bishop told the congregation that the church would start holding just one service.

Long, who had served as a senior pastor at New Birth since 1986, had become a subject of controversy in the past few years.

In 2005, it was reported that he had been named as the biggest beneficiary of the charity he created to help the needy. The compensation to the bishop included a $1.4 million, six-bedroom, nine-bath home on a 20-acre land and more than a million dollars in salary.

In 2010, He had been accused of pressuring four young men into having sexual relationships with him while they were members of his congregation. He reached an out-of-court settlement with his accusers in May 2011. His wife, Vanessa, filed for divorce in 2011, but the couple eventually reconciled.

Long is survived by his wife, his four children and three grandchildren.

"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," his wife said in a statement, according to The Christian Post.

The church stated that a homegoing service in honor of the bishop will be held in the near future.

Hours after the church announced Long's death, his daughter, Taylor, took to Instagram to pay tribute to his father.

"I love you Dad. Thank you for being perfect. I cherish every moment I've shared with you even up to your last breath. I don't blame God for wanting you back, I would too. Everything I do is for you, it's been my honor to be your daughter," his daughter wrote.