‘A giant of faith’: Reactions to Bishop Dr GG Cooper’s death

His family announced his passing with deep sorrow. The revered spiritual leader had been on life support since suffering a severe stroke last November.

Born in the humble farming district of Pusey, Point Hill, St. Catherine, Bishop Cooper — affectionately known to thousands as “Papa” and to his children as “Daddy”— rose from rural beginnings to become one of Jamaica’s most transformative religious figures. He founded the Temple of Praise church on Morrison Street, a congregation that grew into a beacon of hope and worship under his passionate leadership.

Until his death he was the International Presiding Bishop of the Apostolic Church of God 7th Day Worldwide Fellowship which spans across approximately 40 countries of the world. 

In a statement released by the Cooper family, they described him as “the heart of our family” and “a symbol of great strength, courage, and unwavering faith in God.”

“Daddy lived his life in faith, on purpose, and with an unwavering commitment to changing people’s lives for the better while advancing the Kingdom of God,” the family wrote.

Beyond his title as a bishop and doctor of divinity, he was known by many endearing nicknames, “One-General”, "One-GG”, and "God’s Country Boy", each reflecting a different facet of a man who was both a commanding pulpiteer and a gentle patriarch. His preaching, prayers, and worship services touched countless lives across Jamaica and around the world.

“While we are heartbroken, we are deeply thankful for the life he lived, the cherished memories, and the lasting impact he had on the lives God allowed him to touch,” the family added.

Bishop Cooper’s ministry motto, emblazoned on the family’s announcement, “Advancing The Kingdom of God, Fulfilling Destiny”, captures the mission that drove him until his final days.

The Cooper family has expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the community but has respectfully requested privacy as they grieve.

Bishop Cooper, who is also a Canadian citizen, received a divine calling to preach as a child. In the 1980s, amid social and political turmoil in Jamaica, he was inspired to return to his homeland, where he established a ministry that now includes seven assemblies and various outreach efforts across the island, including cable, radio, and prisons.

As news of his passing spread through the streets of Spanish Town and beyond, many expressed condolences on social media echoing the family’s farewell: “Your work on Earth is complete. But your impact remains forever.”

Here are a few select comments on his social media page following his death. 

Franz Williams: To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Many will never be present with the MOST HIGH. But I pray that the heaven bound will make it in. Being election sure!! He has guided many to the light teaching many to be ready & stay ready!! May his soul be steadfast going up yonder. Condolences to his many children, saved & unsaved audience! While we live may we pray up each other that we too may get our paths straight.

Charmaine Reckford: God's stalwart. My papa. Words cannot express my gratitude for the many ways you changed my life. You have ran the course. You have finished the race, and a crown of righteousness is awaiting you. You are truly missed. May the Lord strengthen Mother Cooper, your family and your church family in Jesus Christ name.

Tameisha Hall-Henry: This brings back so much memories, it’s as if you were a part of my family. My mom, aunt and grandmother never missed your online services and worship at fasting services occasionally. They are all gone 1,2 & 3 years now & I watch you service sometimes to reflect now your gone. Heaven was ready for you, you have run the race & finished well. Sleep on Bishop G G Cooper.

Bernard Cooper: My sincere condolences to his family and church family, he has run the race he has finished the course a true champion of the gospel. I pray the God of all comfort will comfort your heart during this time of grief.

Julian Robinson: Rest in peace. Who I am going to listen to now you was a great leader a man of God a great prophet life is short you have done your duty on earth the Lord said is time to come home condolences to the Bishop wife and children.

Funeral arrangements are pending. Bishop Dr GG Cooper is survived by his devoted wife, children, grandchildren, and a spiritual family that spans the globe.