Tulsa - The leader of one of Green Country's largest churches has passed away.

Pastor Billy Joe Daugherty, 57, lost his battle with non-Hodgkins lymphoma early Sunday morning at M.D. Anderson Medical Center in Houston. He was diagnosed with the cancer last month.

The news was brought to a somber congregation at Victory Christian Center around 11 o'clock by associate pastor Bruce Edwards.

"While that's a devistating thing to hear, the Bible says we do not sorrow as the world sorrows," Edwards told the large congregation.

On Friday, church officials said thousands of people praying for Daugherty were having a positive affect as his health was improving.

Edwards read a statement from Daugherty's family members that thanked their church for the outpouring of support and prayer. 

A memorial service for Daugherty will be held Monday, November 30th in ORU's Mabee Center at 1:30 p.m. Doors will open to the public at noon.

In lieu of flowers, family encourage mourners to donations to Victory Christian missions or the building fund.

Billy Joe Daugherty is also the founder of Victory Christian School, Victory Bible Institute and Victory World Missions Training Center.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon and his children Sarah Wehrli, Ruthie Sanders, John Daugherty, and Paul Daugherty.

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