Who was "Cussing Pastor" Thaddeus Matthews? All about controversial radio host as he dies at 67

Memphis pastor Thaddeus Matthews, widely known as "the Cussing Pastor" for his profanity-laden sermons online, passed away on Monday at the age of 67. The controversial radio show host faced several legal issues throughout his career, often making headlines for his outspoken nature.

The news of his passing was shared on Facebook by his estranged wife, Melanie Matthews. Her statement read:

"No more sickness and no more worries. You said you were tired and wanted to rest. On today at 2:25pm, you transitioned peacefully surrounded by family and friends! Facebook family and friends, we want to thank those of you who have been praying for him and us during these trying times. We ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers as we process our loss. Peace and blessings to all!"

The pastor had been battling an undisclosed illness, which led to frequent hospital visits in recent months.

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Thaddeus Matthews and his history of controversial behavior

The pastor, affiliated with the Naked Truth Liberation & Empowerment Ministries, had a very long history of problematic behavior.

His legal troubles began in 2012, when he was arrested for posting a video of child po**ography on his social media, though he was later released on bond.

"The charges are totally ridiculous," Matthews said. "It's out there. I can't deny that I put it on my Facebook page. Could I have used better judgement? Yes." he said.

The pastor claimed that the video was intentionally sent to him, and he posted it to his social media despite knowing better, further asserting that his intention was to lure the perpetrator.

"I hope you understand the reason for the post if you don’t, you probably never need to come to this page. It was and still is my goal to find out who some have told me is a man from Memphis that is doing the most disgusting thing i have ever seen.”

"Are they going to go after anyone else or is this selective prosecution? My name is bigger than John Q Citizen so let's go after Thaddeus. Let's silence Thaddeus. Let's finally get Thaddeus," he said in an interview defending himself.

In 2015, the original charges of s**ual exploiting of a minor were dropped as part of a plea agreement. Matthews received a five-year probation sentence after pleading guilty to tampering with evidence. He was also ordered to complete 40 hours of community service in the welfare sector.

In 2016, Thaddeus Matthews was arrested once again and charged with harassment. His legal troubles continued, as he was arrested in 2022 for harassment and implicated in a case of "revenge p**n."

Apart from these incidents, Matthews has several other charges against him, with one dating as far back as 1985, when he was charged with felony extortion. His other offenses include felony impersonation and carrying a weapon with a license, among others. He had pleaded guilty to both felony and misdemeanor charges, including stalking and domestic violence that were later dropped.

In 2019, he attacked the openly gay city council candidate, Davin Clemons. In a video, he is seen discussing Clemons' se**al orientation, but claiming that he will not "hold that against him". However, he rhetorically questions whether he should look for dirt on Clemons. To which he answers,

"Yes. If there is some. If that's worth."

The video also shows him expressing strong support for Clemons' opponent, emphasizing that he is a man married to a woman, insinuating that he is the better candidate out of the two candidates.

A viral video of the pastor later reignited controversy after he made an unfiltered remark about resting his head on a woman in an intimate manner. This statement drew widespread criticism, with many highlighting how such behavior was highly inappropriate behavior for a religious leader.

In this most recent controversy, he was seen kissing a plastic d**do, shocking his supporters. He later clarified his position, saying:

"Let me deal with the obvious elephant in the room. The video that is going around super viral of me and Dell about four or five years ago. Now, be careful. I did not say male. I said Dell. What you see is what you get. I want you to please understand that it is not a male.”

Pastor Thaddeus Matthews is survived by his estranged wife, children, and grandchildren.