Despite their rollercoaster relationship – which included two separations and a divorce – the late Rhema Bible Church SA founder Ray McCauley died peacefully in the arms of his wife, Zelda Ireland.
The blonde former model married the popular pastor in 2001, barely a year after his divorce from his first wife, Lyndie, who is also the mother of his two children.
The controversial move made headlines at the time and split the congregation of the church.
The late preacher was laid to rest on Saturday, 19 October, at his church in Randburg, Johannesburg.
STANDING BY RAY MCCAULEY THOUGH SICKNESS AND HEALTH
According to Ray McCauley’s son Joshua, he rushed to be by his father’s side last week after a frantic call from Zelda Ireland.
Josh – who has since taken the helm of the Rhema Bible Church – found Zelda praying over his father.
During his memorial service on Thursday, 17 October, the woman behind the popular preacher was credited with supporting him during their 23-year marriage.
One speaker – Patience Mlengana – praised Zelda for caring for Ray during his ill health.
Asking the congregation to give Zelda a standing ovation, she said of the widow: “She made sure that he looks good and eats well. It was not easy for her. Thank you for loving our pastor to the very end. It’s very rare to have wives like that.”
WERE ZELDA IRELAND AND RAY MCCAULEY THE PERFECT COUPLE?
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