One of the founders and pastors of El Paso's first mega church has died. 

Rochelle Nieman, co-founder of Abundant Living Faith Center, died Sunday.

According to a church spokeswoman, Nieman died of an undisclosed illness at around 8:45 a.m., though it was said Nieman had been suffering from a severe illness.

 The church's website states Nieman grew up in Raton, N.M., and came to El Paso at the age of 18 to attend the University of Texas at El Paso. 

That's where she met her husband, Charles. The two married in 1970. The couple have two children, Shannon and Jared.

The couple began preaching in 1977, and it's said that's how Abundant Living Faith Center started. The church boasts around 15,000 members.

Earlier Sunday, Charles and Jared tweeted their thoughts about Rochelle's passing.

"It's w/ sadness that I inform u that my beautiful wife Rochelle went to be w/the Lord this morning. Thank you for your prayers. God Bless," tweeted Charles.

"My beautiful mom went to be with The Lord this morning. Our family truly appreciates your love & support. God Bless You!" Jared tweeted.

Elena Delman, the spokeswoman for the church, tells KFOX14 that services will be this Friday at Abundant Living Faith Center, at 7:00 p.m., and will be open to the public.