Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Bishop G.E. Patterson
Bishop G.E. Patterson
Obituary
Guest Book
G.E. Patterson Obituary
The predominantly black Protestant denomination, headquartered in Memphis, claims 6 million members worldwide and traces its origins to the 1870s.
Patterson was hospitalized in January for an undisclosed illness and told his followers in 2005 that he had prostate cancer.
At the church's annual Holy Convocation in November, he said he had considered stepping down but changed his mind after an outpouring of support.
"If my body being afflicted can get us back to where God wants us to be, then I'm willing to suffer," said Patterson, who then received a standing ovation.
"It was a direct result of his work, such as his TV ministries, that allowed people to see COGIC as it should have been projected," said jurisdictional Bishop Jerry Maynard, the chief operating officer of the national church, who had worked with Patterson since 1992.
"Under his leadership we've seen tremendous strides toward true spirituality," said San Diego jurisdictional Bishop George D. McKinney, a member of the church's General Board.
Maynard said the church would begin selecting a successor after memorial services.
In January, he won the traditional male vocalist of the year honor for his "Singing the Old Time Way Volume 2" at the 22nd annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards.
He was born in Humboldt, Tenn., and was ordained as a church elder in 1957 in Detroit.
Patterson attended Lemoyne-Owen College in Memphis, Detroit Bible Institute and held an honorary doctorate from Oral Roberts University. He was the editor and publisher of the Bountiful Blessings Magazine, with a distribution list of more than 100,000 individuals.
In 2005, he told the church's annual convention in Memphis that believers should overcome differences of race and culture to spread their faith.
"I don't know why we ever got stuck on that thing that we're only supposed to witness to black folks," Patterson said. "Once you've received the word, spread it. God's not going to do something to bless your work until you do something to bless his work."
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
11138 Entries
A television friend
July 7, 2025
Nearly twenty years later your messages transcend time. I thank God you gave us Jesus!!! Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav´nly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Mance Mapp, Jr.
February 26, 2025
I will forever thank God for the memory of a preacher who made you want to be in the presence of Almighty God. He is missed and will always be remembered for his love for people. Mance and Bessie Mapp
Eleshia Knight
January 17, 2025
Praise God I never knew of Bishop Patterson. But one day I was going through the channels of my television wanting to watch Charles Stanley. I had seen Bishop Patterson while strolling; but never once did I think about listening to anything pertaining to his ministry. But one day the Lord Jesus stopped me at one of his sermons. The title was Knowing God's Will. And I thank God!!! Because it was God who gave me this wonderful spirit filled encounter with Bishop G E Patterson. To love a ministry in a man I had never even thought about listening too. Thank you God for allowing his ministry to continue on. For God is still using his ministry to change hearts and lives. Thank you again Eleshia Knight.
Tyrone Jenkins & Chante Jenkins
November 24, 2024
Like Your Church Says "The Messenger Sleeps but the Message Lives on" Ty&Chante Chicago IL.
How you can show support
Leslie Cromwell
August 15, 2024
Bishop G.E. Patterson left a lifetime of wisdom through his teaching of the Word; so charismatic and with fluidity. His ability to simplify God's Word so that everyone could understand His messages was absolutely ingenious. He also had a sense of humor. That in itself was quite intelligent and although it made us laugh, it made us think. The anointing, that was so obviously within him, was felt deeply through each and every one his sermons. When hearing him preach there was no doubt that this dynamic Bishop would one day sit on the right side of God; aka His Chosen. I am more than certain that Bishop Patterson will hear the Lord Thy God say unto him " Well done thy good and faithful servant " for truly he was the epitome of this phrase. Rest in Peace and Power Bishop Patterson. Bravo to you for all your works and souls you've won in your ministry. I still listen to the Bishop's sermons every night on YouTube right before bed to ensure I have a blessed night's sleep. Thank God for allowing us to experience what holiness truly is through the legacy of Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson. God Bless.
Angel Carmon
June 28, 2024
Bishop Patterson is resting in heaven; but, his sermons is still touching souls of many people. When I look at the sermons, they makes me feel good on the inside. I am truly blessed by them.
April 15, 2024
I miss you love you Bishop Patterson
Doreen Graves
March 29, 2024
Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson was a prominent figure in the ministry, known for his charismatic preaching and leadership within the Church of God in Christ (COGIC). He served as the Presiding Bishop of COGIC from 2000 until his passing in 2007. Patterson's ministry was characterized by a focus on evangelism, spiritual renewal, and social outreach. His legacy continues to impact many within and beyond the COGIC community.
Tearbor Milsap
August 18, 2023
Sitting here listening to his message "Get Ready for The 24 Hour Turn Around" is relevant to my life and situation today! Bless God for Bishop Patterson
Patricia Cannon
March 17, 2023
Your messages live on. The word of God that you so clearly articulated in your sermons will never die. Rest well Bishop.
JB RANKIN
October 18, 2022
What man does and says lives on after them. What a message and messenger. Fifteen (15) years and still relevant today. Thanks be to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit of 'all'.
Aiden
September 30, 2022
this james
Johnnie Mae Riley
May 26, 2022
I listen to Bishop Patterson every day he left some powerful words back here rest in peace God bless you
Rev. Carlos Redding
November 14, 2021
His messages are still relevant in 2021!!!! Thanks Bishop for leaving a revealing treasure behind.
necolle collins
June 21, 2021
A powerful man of the cross
Ricky Robertson
May 20, 2021
To the family ,Bishop Patterson a life changing man of GOD, who you could just see JESUS in his life and sermons. What a gift to the world. GOD bless your family.
MIN. DOUGLAS STEWART
February 11, 2021
MIN. DOUGLAS
Shelby Herpin
December 30, 2020
I listen to his yo sermons on youtube most of the time and I enjoyed listening to sermons he had put out everywhere.
Gwen
December 23, 2020
Still listening to his God-Given Sermons and still being blessed by them. RIH Bishop Patterson. A Great Man of God that preached the Word.
Marian Milom
October 27, 2020
God bless he has taught me so much about Jesus i did not know he was dead i listens to this awesome man of God in 2020 thanks to the family of Bishop Patterson that his voice is still here teaching.
Anthony Hill
August 25, 2020
Awesome man of God they don't preach like this anymore
Michael Baker Sr.
June 22, 2020
Just start watching Bishop GE Patterson on YouTube an awesome preacher.
Shelia L Hauser
June 3, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Beverly English
May 28, 2020
Rest In Heaven What a wonderful Bishop you were
candace pitts
May 9, 2020
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Kay Clark
May 8, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
May 5, 2020
RIP Bishop
Margie Rosario
May 5, 2020
RIP Bishop Patterson
Tammy Boone-dixon
April 30, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Gabrielle McLaughlin John
April 19, 2020
He blesses my soul still today.....I just wanted to say thank you.
Shirley Sanders
April 7, 2020
Trying to grow closer to Christ the saviour and with the Bishop's sermons I can draw closer. Heaven has to be your home. In the name of JESUS Thank you Bishop GE Patterson.
Dreda Slaughter
April 6, 2020
May God continue to bless your family.
Tamra King
March 24, 2020
True man of God,,I listen to his ministry today,,to get me through the day..praise the Lord
Trish Thomas
February 23, 2020
CONTINUE TO REST IN THE LOVING ETERNAL ARMS OF JESUS CHRIST....A MAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART...UR WORK DOWN HERE IS #FINISHED!
Josephine Deas-Thomas
January 29, 2020
Simply thank you man of God. Your ministry is still blessing us today. Rest In Heaven.
Regina Odoms
January 17, 2020
Rest In Heaven, Saint Of God !!!
Christina Williams
January 12, 2020
GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. NO ONE CAN REPLACE HIM. ( MY BISHOPE GE PATTERSON. HE IS THE BEST THE BEST THE BEST.
Sherline Budhram
December 28, 2019
I thank God through Christ Jesus in the Holy Ghost for using you man of God in serving the Lord and preaching God's Truth and God's Word and God's Spirit for the world to hear and receive the Word made flesh who is the Lord Jesus Christ.
Tonya McNeal
November 17, 2019
Gone in body from this place but still blessing ppl through your televised ministry. C.O.G.I C for life. Rest well...
Rosa Hopgood
November 15, 2019
I will always remember him. I started watching his TV show because of my mother. She always watched his shows. Today I continue this tradition. I record all of his messages
Beverly English
November 3, 2019
That I would watch him every Sunday morning what blessed man he I miss those Sunday morning
Renay Horn
October 17, 2019
Wonderful preacher l really enjoy listening to him
Robert Battle
October 6, 2019
Great man of God that is greatly missed
Rev G. Bernard Ponds
September 21, 2019
Bishop Patterson has blessed me from afar for years and he did not know it but he was a mentor for me as I engaged in ministry.
If I can leave 1/1000 of a legacy that Bishop left then I will consider myself to have been blessed. Rest In Peace man of God as your light on earth continues to shine.
Josephine Rutledge
September 15, 2019
Sorry to hear about his passing.Love to heat him preach. Amen
Jessie Olison
July 29, 2019
I just thank God for Bishop GE Patterson for the word of the Lord still encourage our hearts and may God strengthen your wife forever more
Jessie Olison
July 29, 2019
Even though he's dead his word is still alive in our hearts
Eddie Wilson
March 24, 2019
Thank you..Bishop GE..Patterson
Wendy Aronson
March 20, 2019
My hubby and I had the honour of being present for one of this wonderful wonderful mans services and were also blessed to meet his beautiful sister. The most moving and memorable morning of our lives which we will never, ever forget.
February 16, 2019
I have never knew about Patterson until about a year ago when I clicked on one of his sermons, I have been a huge fan every since! He blesses me every time I listen to him. And I can truly say, he is one of my all time favorites. I just love this man!!! and he preached just what the world and saints need to hear. Like I always say , in order to rest in peace, you have to die in peace! which I know he did so, I'm going to say...rest in paradise Bishop
February 10, 2019
A wonderful man of God who have touch so many people lives with the word of God. I still to this day listen to his messages today. still being encourage today by Gods Word. think God for a wonderful man of God the Lord knows just what his peoples needs. Rest N Peace my Brother.
February 10, 2019
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Gwendolyn Daggs
January 23, 2019
This is one Man of God I Shall never forget he has touch my life in so many ways He is still speaking as if He is Alive
Dr. L. Matthew Thompson
January 18, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
January 12, 2019
Bishop has been a blessing to me...may he rest in peace in his heavenly home.
Josephine B. Bradley
January 11, 2019
I commenced listening to Bishop Pattersons messages on my cellphone when I was just turning to u tube and Bishop Pattersons face popped up with the sermon THE HOLY GHOST .....I had known about this anointed Pastor for a long time but only God knew that Bishop Patterson is who I needed to start my nightly Bible time with in2019...I Praise God for allowing his page to pop up when it did and God knew that I needed to be blessed by this Preacher messages and I have been truly blessed by the WORDS FROM MY GOD EVERY NIGHT since the beginning . To God Be The Glory,,,,,I Love his preaching and he is not here for me to tell him , but his spirit is here,,,,,,AND GOD KNOWS MY HEART AMEN ,,,,,
Blessings and Love JO BRADFORD BRADLEY of ALTADENA, California 1-11-19
Sandria Lewis-Morgan
December 29, 2018
Still missing you. But I thank God for lending you to us, although it was short. But God knows what's best, I still continue to listen to your messages.
james sheppard
December 18, 2018
bishop you never showed any signs of being scared to die,everybody wants to go to heaven but no one wants to die ,i know you are in heaven. james sheppard mesquite tx
Brandon Clark
December 15, 2018
I never had the privilege of meeting such a giant in the Gospel. But it was his messages that keep me lifted while serving in the United States Army. Now as a Bishop in the Lord's Church I view his videos to stay inspired and to remain humble. Earth lost a Jewel , but Heaven gained a legend.
In His Service
Bishop Brandon Lee Clark, Sr.
Indiana Jurisdictional Prelate
Covenant Family Fellowship of Churches
Lupita Rippy
November 7, 2018
Here it is November 7, 2018 Bishop GE Patterson Legacy yet lives on. I listen to his message day and night as often as I can it keeps me going spiritually. Bishop G. E.Patterson powerful message comes alive bringing forth clarity, encouragement, joy, power through the word and most importantly it brings forth hope. Just to realize that there are Powerful preacher's who are authentic in the land those who are still preaching the word of God without compromising when so many preachers has gone on to be with the Lord. God will always provide a mouth piece to help lead, guide and direct his children. I am honored to be able to enjoy the majority of his messages and receive the same anointing as if he is still in the land.
Chelrisa Swanston
November 7, 2018
As a teenager growing up on the island of St. Thomas in the Caribbean, my Sundays began with the Bountiful Blessings broadcast as my family ran around preparing for that Sunday's service. I always thought that Bishop Patterson was a Christian through and through. I'm not sure what attracted me to his messages at such a young age but I am grateful. I now refer to the songs he ministered and the Word he taught as I grow as a Christian. I'm grateful for the life he lived and for his ministry.
Jennifer Harvey
October 9, 2018
I was very encourage by all Bishop Patterson's messages.
Felicia Lakes
October 2, 2018
A man of God
Carnesha Williams
September 20, 2018
Im listen at Bishop Patterson Now...I truly love that Man of God....I liaten to him just about every night now...Him a Dorinda Clark Cole....I truly Thank God for using Bishop Patterson to speak to millions of people..I know so many soul gotten save..Bishop you are so ever missed..Love you..I will see you in Heaven one Day...IM from Greenville Ms..But moved to Milwaukee ,Wi
Stephanie Ryder
August 15, 2018
I most certainly miss Bishop G. E. Patterson. His messages and his ability to deliver the Word of God touched my life and millions of other lives. I thank God that I had the opportunity to see and hear him preach in person. Continue to rest in eternal peace, Dear Bishop G.E.Patterson!
Necole Goodwine
July 27, 2018
Listening at your sermon on today I can truly say I been blessed. I didn't know you personally,but it felt that way when you preached.You will be missed.Call his name touched me on today.Being a motherless and fatherless daughter I felt God is still with me.Take your rest Bishop.
Toya Young
July 7, 2018
Bishop I'm learning so much by looking at your videos. Such a powerful man of God. I listen to your sermon , The Power of The Word everyday. I know God is pleased., Thank you so much for recording these videos. Sleep in Peace!!!
Rev. Kenneth Kennedy
June 14, 2018
I miss you Bishop, I listen to your videos often. I thank God for you and your many years of service! See you in glory.
Lottie Brown
June 10, 2018
Such a powerful man of God. Sleep on & rest
Peacefully in heaven. I watch your program every
Sunday.
Sybil Treaudo
May 20, 2018
Missing you dearly..Thank you for the inspiration!!! still watching you every Sunday for 3pm.Bishop Patterson such a powerful speaker..God Bless!!I know you are resting peaceful..
Apostle Arch Bishop James Webster Webster
April 15, 2018
A true warrior in the gospel.....a blessing to all clergyman of america.....a born leader!!!!
James carpenter
April 15, 2018
A great man in Christ Jesus
March 25, 2018
Praise God, when the LORD Bless your name it's an Amazing Journey to take, and especially when God gets all the Glory. Amen Bishop and Evangelist Patterson's Ministry is still Kingdom Building Our God and Father's Kingdom in Jesus Christ Our Big Brother and Savior l Glorify God for then. Hallelujah Belzoni. MS, We are a people still loving to listen to the word of God, having a heart prepared to hear God's Holy Word. God Continue to Bless this Ministry. Amen.
Pat& Jerry Washum
March 14, 2018
I loved Bishop Paterson me and my hubby I know he is in heaven enjoying himself and he is very miss on earth bless him!!!
Marie Lewis
March 12, 2018
Marie Lewis no la miss bishop so much
March 12, 2018
He was my strength every day I till like all of sermons and his music has brought me Thur some hard times in my life to God be the Glory
Michelle cummings
March 8, 2018
I've been watching his messages on tv recently and am floored at how relevant and current his messages are for today. I'd really wish they would play his sermons on the word network or impact network more frequently. It has been hard finding good word. Right now I have two of his sermons saved on my dvr and there's not listing time as to when they are going to show another message. Please someone from his ministry. Get a daily if not weekly slot on tv for his messages to show.
Brindalyn Foster
March 7, 2018
"I listen to Bishop Patterson's sermons daily, and because of the anointing that God placed on him, his messages are still so very powerful even after his death. Oh! He is greatly missed! Thank God for Evangelist Louise Patterson for keeping the legacy of his good work alive."
Brindalyn Foster
March 7, 2018
"I listen to Bishop Patterson's sermons daily, and because of the anointing that God placed on him, his messages are still so very powerful even after his death. Oh! He is greatly missed! Thank God for Evangelist Patterson for keeping the legacy of his good work alive."
Brindalyn Foster (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Stephen Hatley
February 24, 2018
G.E. PATTERSON brought me through some of the bad times during my recovery from addiction in the 90's I still listen to him today, he is part of my life for ever. R.I.P. MY Pastor.
February 18, 2018
Bishop Patterson Sermons and songs are still a blessing in my life.God Bless Mrs. Patterson.Cherish and hold on to your memories.God is close to the broken heart.Mrs. Laura L.Green.
Laura L. Green
February 18, 2018
.P
Letha Haywood
February 7, 2018
I loved Bishop Patterson I still listen to his sermons God bless his family
Patrick Tucker
February 2, 2018
He. Was. A. Blessing. To. Hear. On. Sunday. Morning
Cynthia Foster
January 30, 2018
I started listening to Bishop G.E.Patterson at the end of 2017.I feel like a have a received a new blessing in my life.I thank God for his life and his ministry,and for Evangelist Louise Patterson.Surely these saints were anointed by God!!!
Carole Willis-Shelvin
January 19, 2018
Thank you Jesus for Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson. If anyone can listen to Bishop and NEVER change for the better, Something's wrong with them. He is a blessing in MY life. You are STILL here SAVING SOULS that will listen and APPLY GOD'S WORD.
alberta Leblanc
December 31, 2017
Blessing to hear this man. 100 percent Man of God
Phyllis Scales
December 24, 2017
Bishop Patterson u still mean sooo MUCH to me.I try to listen to ur semons every Sunday afternoon on the Word Network.U mean sooo MUCH for people in this World.Miss you RIP
December 24, 2017
I listen to Bishop Patterson every day. I thank GOD for this blessing. He is a man of GOD.
Joyce K
Oklahoma City, Ok
george
December 12, 2017
A TRUE MAN OF GOD !!!
LaSalle Chandler
December 5, 2017
God has smile on me, he has set the bishop free,he is the cause of all my joy may your soul rest for ever in the mighty matchless name of Jesus Christ.
Debra Baker
November 29, 2017
Ten years later and his ministry is still alive and powerful. Thank you Bishop Patterson for the "Word" of God; it still lives.....Forever more!
Maggie Wright
October 28, 2017
I will always love his teaching of God's Word.. I thank God for him.
Torvell Herron
October 12, 2017
I still listen to GE.Patterson" its still powerful service's it's been 10 year's, and i personally feel he still alive amen
Showing 1 - 100 of 11,138 results
Make a Donation
in G.E. Patterson's name
How to support G.E.'s loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor G.E. Patterson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored