At 42, Riva Tims Finally Breaks Her Silence After Pastor Zachery Tims’ Tragic Death**
After over a decade of silence, Riva Tims—the former wife of the late Pastor Zachery Tims—has finally spoken out, sharing the truth about her marriage, her husband’s struggles, and the hidden battles behind one of the most tragic stories in modern church history. Her words offer new insight into the life of a man whose rise and fall shook the Christian world.
Zachery Tims’ journey began in the tough streets of Baltimore, Maryland. Surrounded by crime and brokenness, he seemed destined for trouble, but a near-death experience in his teens became a turning point. Tims gave his life to Christ and dedicated himself to ministry, determined to be a living testimony that anyone could be saved. His raw honesty and street-level relatability drew thousands to his sermons.
After earning his theology degree, Tims moved to Florida, where he met Riva. Together, they founded New Destiny Christian Center in 1996. What started with a handful of members quickly grew into one of Florida’s largest and most influential churches. Their partnership seemed unbreakable, and their ministry changed countless lives.
But as the church grew, so did the pressures. Fame brought temptation, and cracks began to show behind their picture-perfect image. According to Riva, Zachery’s passion and drive slowly gave way to exhaustion and isolation. He began battling the very temptations he preached against, and their marriage suffered. The revelation of infidelity was a devastating blow, both personally and for the congregation. Riva made the painful decision to step away from the church and file for divorce.
Despite the public scandal, Pastor Tims confessed his mistakes and sought counseling. For a time, it appeared he was on the road to recovery, but the pressure of redemption and the loneliness after public humiliation weighed heavily on him. Riva focused on healing and raising their children, choosing grace over bitterness and emphasizing forgiveness in her rare public statements.
On August 12, 2011, tragedy struck. Zachery Tims was found dead in a New York hotel room, and the official autopsy revealed he had died from acute intoxication due to a mixture of drugs. The news devastated his congregation and family. Riva, shattered by the loss, focused on protecting her children from the media storm and judgment that followed.
For years, Riva remained silent, refusing to speak ill of Zachery or fuel rumors. Now, at 42, she has chosen to share her truth—not to expose him, but to bring closure and healing. She describes Zachery as a man who loved God but struggled under the unbearable weight of expectations and personal battles. Her honesty resonates with pastors and believers alike, reminding them that spiritual leaders are human and vulnerable.
Riva’s message is one of transparency, forgiveness, and grace. She encourages churches to support their leaders and recognize their humanity. Through her ministry at Majestic Life Church in Orlando, she helps others find emotional restoration and spiritual growth, emphasizing authenticity over perfection.
Her story is not just about a fallen pastor or a broken marriage. It’s about the reality of human frailty, the power of grace, and the courage to speak truth after years of silence. Riva’s testimony is sparking important conversations about the pressures pastors face, the need for accountability, and the role of forgiveness in healing.
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