Eddie Long biography
Eddie Lee Long, an American pastor, assumed the role of senior pastor at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, a megachurch located in unincorporated DeKalb County, Georgia, in 1987 and continued in that capacity until his passing in 2017. Under Long’s leadership, the congregation experienced significant growth, expanding from 300 members at the outset to 25,000. Born on May 12, 1953, in Charlotte, North Carolina, he passed away on January 15, 2017, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 63. He shared a marital bond with Vanessa Long from 1990 until his demise, and together they raised four children.
Eddie Long birthdate and death date
Lee Long, born on May 12, 1953, in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States, departed from this world on January 15, 2017, at the age of 63 in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.
Eddie Long educational background
Long pursued his undergraduate education at North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina, graduating in 1977 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Following his studies, he secured employment as a factory sales representative with the Ford Motor Corporation. Unfortunately, his tenure came to an end when he was dismissed from the position due to submitting expense reports that included personal telephone calls.
Eddie Long spouse and children
During his lifetime, Eddie Long entered into matrimony twice. Initially, he wed Dabara S. Houston in 1981, but their union concluded in divorce in 1985. Later, Long found love again with Vanessa Griffin, whom he married in 1990, and remained married to until his passing in 2017. With Vanessa Griffin, Long was blessed with four children.
Who are Eddie Long parents and siblings?
Eddie Long was born to Rev. Floyd M. Long, Jr. and Hattie Long.
Eddie Long career
Eddie Long left a significant imprint as a pastor and religious figure, notably as the senior leader of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in unincorporated DeKalb County, Georgia, from 1987 until his passing in 2017. Here are key highlights of his career:
Ministry Leadership: Long’s leadership at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church transformed it into a megachurch during his tenure.
Teaching and Doctrine: Recognized for his distinctive preaching style, Long advocated certain doctrines, notably the prosperity gospel, emphasizing the role of faith, positive speech, and charitable giving in achieving material success.
Influence and Recognition: He gained national recognition for officiating Coretta Scott King’s funeral in 2006. However, he also faced criticism for controversial ceremonies, such as one involving a Torah scroll in 2012.
Controversies: Long’s career was marred by controversies, particularly allegations of sexual impropriety with underage male members of his congregation. Although he denied any wrongdoing, he settled lawsuits out of court.
Philanthropy: Long demonstrated philanthropic endeavors, including a notable $1 million donation to North Carolina Central University to establish a professorship in his name.
Investigation and Decline: His ministry underwent scrutiny during a three-year investigation by the United States Senate Committee on Finance regarding its tax-exempt status. This investigation, coupled with inquiries into his salary and church finances, led to a significant decline in donations to his church.
Illness and Death: Long’s health deteriorated, characterized by significant weight loss, leading to his passing on January 15, 2017, at the age of 63. His career was characterized by both notable achievements in ministry and controversies that affected his reputation and the trajectory of his church.
