APOPKA, Fla.,None — Hundreds of people showed up to mourn the death of New Destiny Christian Center Pastor Zachery Tims, Friday evening in Apopka. Some people waited in line for nearly one hour to get inside the church for the public viewing.
Hundreds, if not thousands, of church members and pastors from across the country were expected to fill New Destiny Christian Center to pay their final respects to Tims.
"Everyone is coming to remember him, and give honor where honor is due for this man of God who went on to be with the Lord," said church member T.J. Bristol.
The 42-year-old megachurch pastor was found dead in a New York hotel room last Friday, but there are still unanswered questions about his death.
His autopsy was inconclusive, but police have told the media they suspect Tims died of a drug overdose. The New York Medical Examiner's Office has not released a cause of death yet, and police have also said they do not suspect foul play.
Though his death is shrouded with uncertainties, his parishioners remain faithful.
"Right now it's all speculation. And, even if it was true, I would never say anything negative about him," said church member Selby Hemmans.
In 15 years, Tims built one of the most successful churches in Central Florida from the ground up. It is currently more than 8,000 members strong.
Tims died leaving an ex-wife and four children. The couple divorced in 2009 after Tims admitted to a year-long affair with a stripper.
This evening, the pastor's tainted past takes a back seat to his passionate sermons, encouraging words and philanthropic endeavors.
"I know everybody's human. Everybody makes mistakes," said Bristol.
Following Friday night's public viewing, there is also a two-hour tribute in honor of Tims.
Tims' funeral is scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Orlando.
WFTV
