[03.28.08] Charles William Conn, a prominent leader in the Church of God (Cleveland, Tenn.), died March 18, four days after suffering a heart attack. He was 88. For several decades Conn served in many high-ranking positions within the Pentecostal denomination, including as general overseer from 1966-1970 and president of its flagship school, Lee College, from 1970-1982.

 

He was also the denomination’s official historian, in part for comprehensively examining the church’s roots in his 1955 book, Like a Mighty Army.

 

“Dr. Conn strategically impacted the church and the Pentecostal world,” said Dennis McGuire, current general overseer of the Church of God. “His influence and legacy will endure for generations to come.”

 

Conn was preceded in death by his wife, Edna, and two of their daughters. He is survived by 10 children, including Paul Conn, who is president of what is now called Lee University; 31 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren.