Updated: April 3, 2026
Gospel music icon and pastor Marvin Sapp has touched millions with soul-stirring hits like “Never Would Have Made It.” Yet behind the powerful voice lies a deeply personal journey of love, loss, and resilience. Many fans still search for details about Marvin Sapp ex wife—or more accurately, his late first wife, Dr. MaLinda Prince Sapp. Here’s her beautiful story, the family they built, and how Marvin is embracing hope today.
Table of Contents
Who Was Marvin Sapp’s Late Wife, Dr. MaLinda Prince Sapp?
Marvin and MaLinda’s love story began early. They met as children in third grade and grew into lifelong partners. Married in 1992, MaLinda wasn’t just a supportive spouse—she was a powerhouse in her own right. A licensed counselor, college professor, author, and administrative pastor at Lighthouse Full Life Center Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she co-founded the ministry alongside Marvin.
MaLinda held a doctorate and worked passionately as a therapist helping others heal. She also managed Marvin’s music career, served as executive producer on projects, and poured energy into community initiatives. Together, they dreamed big—launching educational programs and touching countless lives through faith and service.
- Devoted partner who stood by Marvin during his rise in gospel music
- Accomplished professional with a heart for counseling and education
- Co-visionary in building their church and community legacy
Her warmth, intelligence, and quiet strength made her the perfect complement to Marvin’s anointing.
The Heartbreaking Loss and Lasting Legacy
In 2010, at just 43 years old, Dr. MaLinda Prince Sapp passed away after a courageous battle with colon cancer. The news shook the gospel community. Marvin, left to raise their three children alone, channeled his grief into music and ministry. Songs like “My Testimony” and “The Best in Me” carried raw emotion from this season.
Even years later, Marvin honors her memory publicly. In October 2025, Grand Rapids named a street in her honor and installed a cornerstone at the church they built together. A legacy award now bears her name, celebrating service and impact—just as she lived.
MaLinda’s influence continues through her family and the institutions she helped create. She showed that faith doesn’t erase pain but gives strength to keep moving forward.
Family Life: Three Children Who Carry the Torch
Marvin and MaLinda welcomed three children who remain central to his world:
- Marvin Sapp II (born 1994)
- MiKaila D. Sapp (born 1997)
- Madisson Sapp (born 1999)
After MaLinda’s passing, Marvin often spoke about the challenges and joys of single fatherhood. The kids grew up witnessing strong faith and now lead lives of their own—some married with children. Marvin has shared how family remains his greatest blessing and anchor.
A New Season of Love: Engagement in 2026
After 16 years as a widower, Marvin Sapp stepped into a hopeful new chapter. In February 2026, he announced his engagement to Dr. La’Boris Cole, a respected licensed therapist, ministry leader, and founder of the Born 2 Danz Worship Arts Conference. The couple had been longtime friends for over a decade before their relationship blossomed privately.
The surprise proposal—cleverly planned by Marvin’s adult children as a “birthday party”—was a beautiful full-circle moment. They tied the knot on March 20, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas, marking spring as a symbol of fresh beginnings. Many fans celebrated this as God writing a redemptive next page.
Here’s a quick overview of key details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| First Wife | Dr. MaLinda Prince Sapp (m. 1992–2010) |
| Cause of Passing | Colon cancer complications |
| Children | Marvin II, MiKaila, Madisson |
| New Fiancée/Wife (2026) | Dr. La’Boris Cole, PhD (therapist & minister) |
| Wedding Date | March 20, 2026 |
| Current Ministry Base | The Chosen Vessel Church, Fort Worth, TX |
This table captures the timeline of love, loss, and renewed hope in Marvin’s life.
Conclusion: Faith, Loss, and New Beginnings
Marvin Sapp’s story with his late wife MaLinda reminds us that real love often involves partnership, sacrifice, and enduring legacy. Her life of service and his journey through grief have inspired generations to hold onto faith even when “you never would have made it” on your own.
Today, with grown children, ongoing ministry, and a new season of companionship, Marvin continues to show that healing and hope are possible. Whether through his music, pastoring, or personal testimony, his life encourages anyone walking through loss: God can restore joy and write beautiful new chapters.
If you’re a fan of Marvin Sapp or simply seeking encouragement from a story of resilience, remember—testimonies are born in the hardest seasons. What’s your favorite Marvin Sapp song that helped you through a tough time? Share in the comments!