(CNN) Bishop Eddie Long, the controversial Georgia-based head of one of the nation's largest megachurches, has died, according to the church he presided over. Long died after a battle with an aggressive form of cancer, according to a statement by the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. "Bishop Long was known as one of the most influential faith leaders in the world," the church said in the statement. "Although his transition leaves a void for those of us who loved him dearly, we can celebrate and be happy for him, knowing he's at peace," his wife Vanessa Long said in the statement. At its peak New Birth Missionary Baptist Church had about 25,000 members.

Source: CNN January 15, 2017 15:22 UTC