Harold Paisley was considered the dominant evangelical voice in Canada.
After settling in Ontario from Northern Ireland in 1966, the former Royal Ulster Constabulary Policeman and World War II veteran travelled the world to preach the gospel for over 60 years.
Paisley died Friday at Victoria Village in Barrie at age 91.
"He was the Billy Graham of the Plymouth Brethren," said David Helwig, a former member of the Evangelical Christian network. "He was a spell-binding speaker, a fiery preacher, very passionately committed to his faith and known throughout North America."
Paisley preached at gospel halls in Ontario and around the world and was considered very influential.
His death made news in the U.K. due to his own legacy but also because of his younger brother.
"Ian Paisley's brother dies in Canada," was the headline in the Belfast Newsletter, which featured a photo of the smiling brothers with their arms around each others shoulders.
Reverend Ian Paisley was an evangelist and controversial figure who founded Northern Ireland’s Free Presbyterian Church and Democratic Unionist Party.
Ian died in 2014.
The Belfast Newsletter reports that Harold was unwell and in a care home at the time of Ian's death and could not attend the funeral.
"In his own way he resembled Ian Paisley's fiery nature," recalled Helwig, who knew Harold Paisley for decades. "But Harold was completely non-political. He was not involved in politics and concentrated on, as he would say, the gospel of Christ."
Paisley is survived by his wife Etta, four children, seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
"Memories of his strong faith, vibrant personality, charisma, and determined and passionate character will remain with us always," reads his obituary.
"The family would like to thank the staff at Victoria Village for their tireless and compassionate care. They treated him like family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Victoria Village Manor in Harold’s name."
Mourners from all over North America and likely the U.K. are expected to attend Paisley's funeral.
Friends may call at Adams Funeral Home at 445 St.Vincent Street on Saturday, December 12 from 11a.m. until the time of Funeral Service in the Chapel at 12:30 p.m.
