It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of beloved former General Overseer Fred S. Fisher, Sr. (2000-2006). Bishop Fisher was installed as general overseer in the Church’s 91^st Assembly in 2000. At that time, he expressed a consuming burden to see larger, more vibrant local churches, and overall new growth throughout the United States and the world. He spoke of the Church as “an inclusive ship” and the change to his leadership as a “bend in the river.” “Our methods have changed,” he said, “but our message is the same—Jesus saves, Jesus saves!”

Bishop Fisher was born on October 13, 1934, in Nashville, Tennessee. He began preaching at age sixteen and served the Church at local, state, and international levels. At the time of his selection, he had been serving the Church in the newly created position of North America General Presbyter for just two years.

Bishop Fisher impacted generations as a result of his constant interest and support of children and young people. His fatherly instincts, caring concern, and often expressed appreciation for those at the International Offices and elsewhere were highlighted in every address to the Assembly. Bishop Fisher left office effective September 30, 2006, in the 57th year of his ministry. After leaving the office, he was the first general overseer to accept a pastorate, serving at the Clemson, South Carolina Church of God of Prophecy.

Please join with us in praying for Bishop Fisher’s wife Betty, daughter Vonnie, and the entire family. We grieve the loss of a giant in our movement but rejoice that he has made it home.

The funeral arrangements for General Overseer Emeritus Fred S. Fisher, Sr. are as follows:

Visitation with the family will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, with the funeral service immediately following at 1:00 p.m. The visitation and funeral will be held at the Church of God of Prophecy, 139 Flowers Street, Rockingham, NC 28379. A private burial will be held on Friday, May 17. All times are in the Eastern time zone.

Ministers and their companions are invited to be seated in a special, reserved section at the funeral service. If desiring to be a part, please meet in the church’s Family Life Center at 12:30 p.m.

The funeral activities are coordinated by Carter Funeral Home, 705 S Caroline Street, Rockingham, NC 28379, (910) 895-2073.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support for the Fisher family during this time.