Ray Bentley's covid-related death rocks Maranatha Chapel community

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Sad news has been announced that Maranatha Chapel senior pastor Ray Bentley has passed away. His death was confirmed in a statement by the San Diego church on Tuesday, which revealed he had died from complications related to covid-19.

As news of Ray Bentley’s passing is shared online, we explore the pastor’s life and career as many pay tribute to his life on social media.

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Pastor Ray Bentley’s death confirmed by Maranatha Chapel

Senior pastor Ray Bentley’s passing was confirmed in a statement by Maranatha Chapel yesterday (Tuesday, 4 January). The pastor was 64 years old, having celebrated his latest birthday in June.

The message, which was released on the San Diego church’s website and Facebook page yesterday, explained the pastor had died following complications after contracting covid-19.

It began: “With grieving hearts, we need to let you know that our dear Pastor Ray went home to be with the Lord this afternoon due to complications of covid.”

The statement concluded as the church extended its thoughts and prayers to his wife of more than four decades, Vicki, and their family:

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Pastor’s career explored

Ray Bentley was best known as the founder and senior pastor at Maranatha Chapel. He founded the San Diego church in August 1984, which now, more than 37 years later, serves around 7,000 people weekly.

He had served alongside his wife Vicki in ministry for more than four decades, with the couple celebrating 40 years of service in 2017.

The pastor was also a speaker and author and released his most recent book, As The Days Of Noah, in November last year.

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Ray Bentley’s covid-related death rocks Maranatha Chapel community

Following the news of his passing, fans and those who followed the teachings of the pastor took to social media to remember his life and career:

We send our condolences to Ray Bentley’s family and friends at this difficult time.

Amber Peake

Amber is an entertainment journalist with a love for anything showbiz, celeb or reality TV. After graduating with a degree in Journalism at Brunel University she became a Showbiz Reporter at Express.co.uk. Having written for both HITC and The Focus, Amber is now a staff writer for The Focus covering the latest celeb and entertainment trends.