South African gospel singer and pastor Lionel Peterson passed away at age 74 after battling a prolonged case of diabetes.
The news of the singer’s death has flooded social media with condolences for the family and tribute to the pastor with stories of how great the pastor was and how he helped change other people’s lives.
Let us learn more about the South African gospel singer, his life achievements, cause of death, and family.
Pastor Lionel Peterson Passed Away At Age 74, Death Cause
Pastor Lionel Peterson passed away at age 74 on July 14, 2022, after struggling with health issues for the past couple of years.
According to his obituaries on Facebook, he had been battling diabetes during the last years of his life. Despite being in bad health, he was always gentle and sweet.
He made a significant impact on many people’s lives with his music and his teachings. People are flooding social media paying tribute and condolences to the music legend, explaining how much of an inspiration Peterson was to them.
Lionel Peterson: From R&B Vocalist To Gospel Music
Born on October 13, 1947, Peterson is best known as a pastor and a gospel singer at the Rhema Church, but he was a South African R&B vocalist before going under God’s wing.
He was a part of the group The Miracles after playing a few gigs with The Thunderballs. Lionel even recorded the Miracles album, which helped him gain recognition in the music industry.
Later, recognizing his incredible vocals, he was recruited by another popular band called The Invaders, where he released two albums and his fame gave him a chance to go solo with his music career.
The musician has even won an award for his single Coma Back Liza, but after a successful music career, he decided to join a church in Randburg and switch to making Gospel music.
His dedication to his religion and music made him a pastor while also singing Gospel music at the church.
How Is The Pastor’s Family Taking The News Of His Passing?
The pastor was close and dear to many people throughout his life, and many people on Facebook are paying tribute to the late singer and his family, thanking him for his contribution.
His wife, Valerie Triegaardt Peterson, shared a picture of the two with roses given by Lionel Peterson in the background on her Facebook, writing, “The love of my life forever”
The post’s comments consist of condolences to the family with words of kindness and sincerity towards the pastor.
Another user who called Peterson her kid’s godfather shared an emotional story about how he inspired the young man and wished his sincere condolence to his family; his wife, son, and brother.