Gospel music icon Marvin Sapp is preparing to embark on a new chapter in his personal life. The celebrated singer and pastor has announced his engagement to Dr. La’Boris Cole, a leader in ministry and the behavioral health field.
The engagement was revealed with a touch of surprise, orchestrated with the help of Sapp’s adult children. What began as a birthday celebration quickly transformed into a momentous occasion when Sapp proposed to Cole, surrounded by their families. The couple had been friends for over a decade before embarking on a romantic relationship, a connection they intentionally kept private until they were certain of their shared future.
Sapp’s journey to this point has been one marked by both profound loss and resilient faith. He has openly shared his experiences navigating life as a widower and raising his three children following the passing of his wife and manager, MaLinda Prince Sapp, from colon cancer in . He’s been candid about his desire to find love again, but only after ensuring his children were settled and thriving.
In a interview with 98.9 Kiss FM in Lagos, Nigeria, Sapp articulated his feelings about re-entering the dating world. “Now that they’re all adults…I really just sought God and said ok, listen, just give me life enough that after I see my children are grown and healed, which was most important to me, allow me to have enough life so that I can share life with someone else one day,” he explained. He acknowledged the evolving landscape of relationships, noting, “I’ve dated, of course. Haven’t found her yet. But absolutely looking — let me say that. What I’ve learned in this dating space, strangely enough, is I’ve learned that 20th-century women are definitely different from 21st-century women.” He described himself as a “student in this season,” learning to navigate the complexities of modern dating with hope and prayer.
That search appears to have concluded with Dr. Cole. A multifaceted professional, Cole is the founder and executive director of the Born 2 Danz Worship Arts Conference, a nationally recognized organization. She also serves as the founder and CEO of Cole Associates & Counselors of Texas, a multi-site behavioral health practice. Her work centers on empowering individuals to recognize their inherent value, heal from past wounds, and confidently pursue their purpose.
Dr. Cole’s academic credentials include a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Mississippi College, and a doctoral degree in Clinical Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. Her life’s mission, as evidenced by her professional endeavors, is rooted in fostering holistic well-being and spiritual growth.
Sapp, known for his powerful vocals and deeply moving lyrics, is perhaps best recognized for his hit song “Never Would Have Made It.” The song’s message of resilience and faith resonated with audiences worldwide and inspired a TV One biopic detailing his life story. He continues to serve as pastor of The Chosen Vessel Church in Fort Worth, Texas, alongside his music ministry and radio show.
The couple has shared a glimpse of their joy with a series of engagement photos, captured by Cenomaxx. While a wedding date has not yet been announced, the announcement of their engagement has been met with widespread congratulations from fans and colleagues alike.
This engagement represents more than just a personal milestone for Sapp and Cole; it’s a testament to the power of second chances, the enduring strength of faith, and the beauty of finding love after loss. It’s a story that resonates with many, offering a message of hope and encouragement to those who believe in the possibility of a brighter future.