'He's left a mark in Milwaukee': Beloved Milwaukee Bishop Sedgwick Daniels passes away at 64

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A beloved and longtime pastor in Milwaukee has passed away.

According to a social media post, Bishop Sedgwick Daniels has died at the age of 64.

"I couldn’t believe it at first. It's like, nah, you got to be kidding," said Derek Collier.

The news of Daniels' death is still surreal for 41-year-old Collier. Collier said the bishop was like an uncle figure to him.

"He showed me how to be an actual real man and an actual father, and to care about my kids, the community and where I am at," said Collier.

The bishop's clergy work in Milwaukee spanned more than three decades.

His passion for community can be seen just outside his church, Holy Redeemer Institutional Church of God in Christ. A school and several housing properties were all built under the bishop's leadership.

"The bishop owns just about everything surrounding me on either side of me. I think I was kind of blessed to move on the block," said Stacy Pipes.

Pipes, originally from Chicago, moved to Milwaukee a year ago. She said the bishop's impact on the 414 is clear to see.

"In my eyes, in my spirit, he's left a mark in Milwaukee," said Pipes.

The official cause of the bishop's death has not been said yet, but people in the community said they're grateful for the time they had with him.

"Thank you, I love you bishop, and it won't ever change. Thank you for everything," said Collier.

According to the church, the family of Bishop Daniels is expected to release a statement.

A celebration of life service will be held at Holy Redeemer on Milwaukee's north side. It will take place Sunday, Nov. 19 at 6:00 p.m. 

There will be another service on Monday, Nov. 20, at 11:00 a.m.