Obituary of Superintendent Eric W. Slack, Esquire
Superintendent Eric W. Slack, Esquire, a devoted husband, loving father, distinguished legal mind, and faithful servant-leader, transitioned from labor to eternal reward on October 7, 2025. Born on January 2, 1960 in Toledo, Ohio, Superintendent Slack was the youngest son of the late Deacon John R. Slack, Sr. and Ruby D. Slack. His life was marked by purpose, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to service—both in his profession and in the Kingdom of God.
A proud alum of the University of Michigan, Superintendent Slack earned his Bachelor of Arts degree with distinction majoring in Sociology with a minor in Spanish. An enthusiastic supporter of Michigan football, he often celebrated their wins—and mourned their losses—with heartfelt social media posts featuring his beloved canine companion, “Cameron.” He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Toledo College of Law, embarking on a legal career that was as impactful as it was diverse. His professional journey included service with Legal Aid, the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, and private practice. Superintendent Slack also gave generously of his time and expertise through active participation on numerous civic boards and committees, always championing justice and advocacy for the underserved. He served as Director of Mission Services for Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio, Inc. and at the time of his passing, he faithfully served as Business Development Liaison for Cherry Street Missions, continuing his life’s work of compassion and outreach.
Superintendent Slack’s ministerial call was both profound and purposeful. A lifelong member of the Church Of God In Christ, he served with unwavering integrity, deep humility, and a spirit of excellence. His spiritual foundation was lovingly nurtured under the leadership of the late Bishop William M. James at St. James Church Of God In Christ in Toledo, Ohio, where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age. His devotion to ministry was evident as he was ordained a Deacon, faithfully laboring in the vineyard of the Lord. He was later ordained an Elder under the late Bishop Walter B. Jordan and subsequently elevated to Superintendent under the leadership of the late Bishop Earl J. Wright, Sr.—a testament to his steadfast commitment and anointing for service.
At the national level, he held the esteemed position of Parliamentarian of the General Assembly, serving under the leadership of Bishop L. F. Thuston. His national contributions also included roles as Special Assistant to Presiding Bishop Emeritus Charles E. Blake, Sr., Coordinator of the 2002 Constitutional Convention, and a member of the Executive Committees for both the National Leadership Conference and the General Assembly. A scholar and servant-leader, he was a member of the O.T. Jones Institute and a proud member of the Church God In Christ Publishing Board.
In 2010, he was installed as Pastor of Davis Memorial Church of God in Christ in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Just four years later, led by divine inspiration and a deep passion for ministry, he established New Creation Ministries Church of God in Christ. There, he faithfully served as a shepherd to God’s people—leading with vision, compassion, and unwavering faith.
A man of fervent prayer and spiritual discipline, he also founded the “Early Will I Seek Him” Morning Prayer Ministry—a powerful 6:00 AM, 15-minute daily prayer call. Rooted in the precepts of Mark 1:35, this ministry followed the example of Jesus’ early morning communion with the Father, encouraging believers to begin each day in God’s presence, seeking His guidance, strength, and peace.
He served within the Michigan North Central Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, under the leadership of the Jurisdictional Prelate and Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard. He served with distinction in several key roles, including Vice-Chair of the Executive Committee, member of the Ordination Committee, and Vice-Chair of the Prayer Ministry for the Michigan North Central Jurisdiction AIM Convention.
Though Superintendent Slack’s accomplishments were many, his heart remained centered on his family. He was united in holy matrimony in 1990 to Cheryl L. Ellison, a woman of grace, faith, and legacy—the granddaughter of the late Bishop O.T. Jones, Sr., the second Senior Bishop of the Church Of God In Christ. Together, they were blessed with a cherished daughter, Sydni E. Slack, the light of his life and the joy of his heart.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, the late Deacon John R. Slack, Sr., and Ruby D. Slack, as well as his esteemed father-in-law, Dr. Robert L. Ellison. DDS. Cherishing his memory are his devoted wife, First Lady Cheryl L. Slack; his beloved daughter, Sydni; his brother, John aka Bobby Slack (Crystal); and his cherished mother-in-law, Thelma Ellison. He is also lovingly remembered by a host of cousins, extended family, the New Creation Ministries and Michigan North Central family, and a multitude of friends and colleagues whose lives were indelibly impacted by his wisdom, compassion, and steadfast spirit. Superintendent Eric W. Slack will be remembered for his intellectual brilliance, his deep sense of justice, his boundless compassion, and his enduring commitment to the work of the Lord. His legacy is one of faith, service, and love—and it will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know him.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”
— Matthew 25:21