Sean McPherson, lead pastor of Real Life Church of the Nazarene in Rapid City, South Dakota, passed away 26 April after battling cancer for more than a year. He was 47.

McPherson also served as a South Dakota state representative, a position he was elected to in 2016 where he served District 32.

Before becoming a pastor, McPherson was a U.S. Navy submariner for eight years, spent four years serving as a project manager at Intel Corporation, and spent two years as a field sales engineer for Sencore Corporation.

He started his journey into full-time ministry in 2003 as an associate pastor at New Hope Family Church of the Nazarene in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, (now known as Reach Church of the Nazarene) where he served for six years. In 2010, he accepted the lead pastor position at Real Life Church, and during this time McPherson taught high school Bible classes at Rapid City Christian School.

Many of McPherson's colleagues shared their confidence in his character, both professionally and personally.

"Mcpherson was a good legislator, but more importantly, he was a good man," said South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley tweeted about McPherson's passing.

"I am heart broken to learn my friend Representative Sean McPherson from Rapid City has lost his battle with cancer," Jackley said. "He is in a better place now and his legacy will not fade. He was a remarkable husband, father, public servant and friend to everyone. He will be deeply missed."

At the time of release, funeral arrangements have not been announced.

He is survived by his wife, Kris McPherson, and their four children, Wes, Jordon, Trinity, and Jason.

Prayer is requested for the McPherson and Real Life Church families.