Beloved Pastor Tae Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Faith, Compassion, and Community in Memphis and Beyond
Memphis, TN — October 7, 2025
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Pastor Tae, a beloved spiritual leader, mentor, friend, and guiding light whose life embodied unwavering faith, compassion, and service. Originally from Thomasville, Alabama, Pastor Tae found his calling in Memphis, Tennessee, where he became not only a respected figure in the church but also a cherished presence in the broader community.
News of his passing has sparked an outpouring of grief, gratitude, and remembrance from individuals across state lines who were impacted by his ministry, mentorship, and genuine care for others.
A Life of Purpose and Service
From a young age, Tae’s life was centered around service to others. Growing up in Thomasville, he was known for his gentle spirit, leadership among his peers, and early devotion to scripture and the teachings of Christ. It was no surprise to those who knew him that he would one day answer the call to ministry.
After relocating to Memphis, Pastor Tae quickly became a pillar of the local faith community. He led with humility, taught with wisdom, and served with an open heart. As the founder and senior pastor of his growing congregation, he welcomed people from all walks of life, never judging, always loving.
“He didn’t just preach the Word,” said Elder Mark Henderson, a longtime friend and fellow clergyman. “He lived it. Every day. Every hour. He poured into others, even when he was running on empty.”
Pastor Tae was known for dynamic preaching, powerful prayer services, and a pastoral care ministry that extended beyond church walls. He visited the sick, comforted the grieving, mentored young people, and provided counsel to married couples and struggling families. His church was more than a building — it was a beacon of hope and healing, especially for those who had been forgotten or cast aside by society.
Impacting Lives Across Generations
Over the years, Pastor Tae became a spiritual father to many, mentoring young men and women in ministry, leadership, and personal development. Through youth programs, outreach missions, and community partnerships, he empowered a new generation of believers and leaders.
“He saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself,” said 24-year-old ministry leader Kaleb James, who credits Pastor Tae with helping him find purpose after a troubled childhood. “He gave me a Bible, but more than that — he gave me direction. He gave me love.”
His compassion wasn’t limited to the pulpit. Pastor Tae was known to buy groceries for families in need, quietly cover tuition or utility bills for struggling members, and show up for community events and protests, advocating for justice, unity, and peace.
Remembered for His Love and Light
Those who knew Pastor Tae describe him as warm, approachable, and deeply sincere. He had a gift for making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued — whether they were attending church for the first time or had been members for decades.
“He remembered your name, your children, your story,” said Sister Denise Holloway, a member of his church for over 10 years. “He made time for everyone. He made everyone feel like they mattered — because to him, they truly did.”
His sermons often focused on the unconditional love of God, healing from trauma, forgiveness, and community restoration. Congregants say they left church services not only spiritually fed but also challenged to love more deeply and live more purposefully.
A Profound Loss to the Community
The loss of Pastor Tae is being felt far beyond the walls of his church. City leaders, fellow pastors, educators, and activists have all shared their condolences and reflections on social media.
Memphis City Councilwoman Alicia Brown wrote, “Pastor Tae was more than a man of the cloth — he was a man of the people. His compassion was boundless, and his legacy will continue to shape this city.”
Bishop Raymond Ellis of Greater Hope Fellowship added, “In a time when leadership is often self-serving, Pastor Tae stood as a servant-leader. Heaven has gained a giant.”
Celebration of Life Services
The family and church have announced that a public celebration of life service will be held in Memphis later this week, with additional memorials planned in Thomasville, Alabama, to honor his roots and the many lives he touched in his hometown.
Details on the services will be made available in the coming days. In the meantime, a virtual memory wall has been created where friends, loved ones, and church members can share tributes, photos, and prayers in his honor.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Though his physical presence is no longer with us, Pastor Tae’s influence will never fade. His life stands as a testament to what is possible when one commits fully to loving God and serving others.
“He didn’t chase fame or fortune,” said Minister Lillian Grace. “He chased souls. He chased hearts. And he captured them — with love.”
As Memphis mourns the loss of one of its most beloved spiritual voices, it also celebrates the gift of his life, the power of his example, and the seeds he planted that will continue to bloom for generations to come.
Rest well, Pastor Tae. Your light lives on in every life you touched.
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