J.B. Mance, often referred to as the “Godfather of Gospel,” lost his life in a house fire in Mississippi early Tuesday morning, as reported by several sources citing fire department officials.

<p.Mance, who was 97 years old, died after a fire broke out at his residence on Newport Street in Jackson, Mississippi around 2 a.m., according to reports from WJTV and WAPT. The Jackson Fire Chief, Willie Owens, confirmed Mance’s identity as the individual who perished in the incident.

As per Assistant Fire Chief Patrick Armon’s statement to WJTV, the fire caused significant damage to approximately 50% of Mance’s home, with the front room sustaining most of the destruction. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported, as noted by the Jackson-based TV station.

On Wednesday, YSL News reached out to the Jackson Fire Department, Jackson Police Department, and the Hinds County Medical Examiner’s Office but did not receive an immediate reply.

J.B. Mance Remembered as a Key Figure in the Jackson Community

Mance was the leader of a musical group known as the Soul Consolators, famous for songs like “Hold On” and “Don’t Trust a Snake.”

Pastor P.J. Williams described Mance as the oldest deacon and a valued member of Cornerstone M.B. Church in Jackson, as reported by WJTV.

“I want everyone to remember his legacy, his contributions through song and prayer, and all he accomplished in the gospel community,” Williams stated.

Mance’s family shared with WAPT that he was regarded as a “pillar in the Jackson community.”