We were hoping that the year of 2017 will be a lil more easy on us when it comes to reporting deaths. But it looks as if it is starting off just like 2016 ended. This morning we awoke to some horrible news that Bishop Eddie Long, the Pastor and founder of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, has died this morning at the age of 63.

New Birth issued a brief statement explaining the cause of death, and wife Vanessa also chimed in about her husband’s early passing.

“New Birth Missionary Baptist Church celebrates the life and legacy of Bishop Eddie L. Long who is now spiritually healed and home with the Lord. Bishop Long, Senior Pastor of New Birth, transitioned from this life early Sunday morning after a gallant private fight with an aggressive form of cancer. As a man of God with unyielding faith, Bishop Long maintained his commitment to our Heavenly Father as he proclaimed that cancer would not kill his faith nor his spirit. First Lady Elder Vanessa Long, Bishop Long’s wife of 27 years offered the following. ‘I am confidant 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.’”

Here are three little known facts you guys may not know about the late Bishop Eddie Long.

1. Bishop Long became the pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in DeKalb County, Georgia, in 1987 and grew the congregation from 300 to more than 25,000.

2. Bishop Long graduated from North Carolina Central University right in Durham, NC.

3. Bishop Long officiated the funeral for Coretta Scott King, the wife of Martin Luther King Jr., in 2006.

He was a man who mad a difference in the world. And no matter what kind of controversy surrounded him in his last days, we must celebrate all the good deeds.

Bishop Eddie Long tweeted this yesterday to encourage anyone who needed it.

Resist the spirit of weariness and discouragement! #YouAreVictorious

What a final tweet to leave!

Our condolences to First Lady Vanessa, Bishop’s four children, his three grandchildren, and the entire New Birth family.

Rest in peace Bishop Eddie Long.