A leader and pastor within The Wesleyan Church has passed away. Dr. Daniel Eugene Finch died on January 9, 2016, in Duluth, Ga., at age 79.

Dr. Finch was born on June 1, 1936 in Manitou Springs, Colo. He held three undergrad degrees, a masters and a doctorate. He married Carol, his college sweetheart in 1958. In the mid-1960s the couple welcomed two children into their home. His children remember him as a father with unconditional love.

Daniel was accomplished at building churches, playing musical instruments, leading people to Jesus, and training leaders worldwide. He was a published author, successful pastor, tireless leader, and church pioneer who loved God and was passionate about changing the world for Christ. His influence for Christ spans the globe including Ireland, Africa, Jamaica, and beyond. He was a pastor at 12Stone Church, a leader in The Wesleyan Church, and an avid model railroader. His family has produced generations of pastors, teachers, missionaries, and leaders. He was a man with a strong heart, who loved God, his family, and people around the world.

Dr. Finch was an ordained minister of the South Carolina District of The Wesleyan Church. He served as district superintendent of the West Virginia District from 1998-2002 and mentored a strong cohort of new young pastors during that time. He was instrumental in facilitating the merger of the West Virginia and Virginia districts into the Shenandoah District in 2002.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; son Sherwin (Jeanelle), Sugar Hill, Ga.; daughter Cheryl (Michael) Casteel, Indianapolis, Ind.; sister Angeline (Steve) Hamburg, Holland, Mich.; sister Josi Dautel, Hendersonville, Nev.; brother Paul Finch, North Pole, Ala. He is preceded in death his parents, Paul W. Finch, Sr. and Georgia Finch; and brother Douglas Finch. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Zach (Stephanie) Nall, Kayla Nall, Hunter Nall, Ciara Casteel, Colby Hill, and Ryan Hill.

A funeral is scheduled for Saturday, January 16, 2016, at 11 a.m., at 12Stone Church, in Lawrenceville, Ga., with hospitality to follow in the lobby. Pastor Chris Huff will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Daniel Finch’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to PrimeTime World Outreach at 903 Tarry Post Court, Suwanee, Ga., 30024. Dan’s family would like to thank friends and family who have loved and prayed, the 12Stone Church Family, and Vitas Hospice for their care.