Deron Cloud, the pastor of the Maryland-based church Soul Factory which he has been leading for close to three decades, has died. He was 58.

The death of Andre ‘Big Daddy’ Deron Cloud was announced by the church in a livestream. He passed away on August 31, 2024.

The family released a statement: “Our guy, Big Daddy, never a dull moment. The Family asks that you respect their privacy which includes a time to mourn and grieve. We have never stopped celebrating this life. Thank you Lord for the life You sent. Thank you Lord for the life you spent. Amen,”

Deron and his wife, Jill, were pastors at the Forestville, Maryland church for the ‘Perfectly Imperfect’.

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Cloud founded the Soul Factory in 1996, having started his service in ministry years before. Before starting Soul Factory and long after, Cloud evangelized on stage by writing and performing plays with a godly message.

He met his wife Jill at their local church and they got married in 1991. Jill helped struggling mothers in her neighbourhood and taught bible study at her job before quitting to join the Soul Factory alongside her husband.

His death has sparked an avalanche of tributes as people remember him as a loving father, husband, grandfather, and most importantly of all, their rock.

“Pastor Cloud’s impact went far beyond the pulpit; he did so much for the community, always leading with love and vision. My heart is broken to hear this news. May you rest in peace, Deron,” read on tribute.

“My love, prayers and condolences to Jill and all of you at the Soul Factory RIP Deron Great leader and funny creative guy!” another tribute read.