Marvin Sapp Engaged: Gospel Star Proposes to Dr. La’Boris Cole

The beloved figure in the gospel music community, Marvin Sapp, has seen his life become a tapestry of profound loss interwoven with incredible triumph. After dedicating over a decade to raising his children and healing from personal tragedy, a new and beautiful thread has been added to his story. The renowned pastor and singer is entering a thrilling new chapter, one filled with love and partnership, as he prepares to walk down the aisle once again.

Is Marvin Sapp Engaged?

Marvin Sapp is engaged to Dr. La’Boris Cole. After more than a decade as a widower, the gospel music icon has proposed to his long-time friend, Dr. La’Boris Cole, in a surprise celebration orchestrated by his children .

The engagement, which was announced publicly on February 23, 2026, marks a significant and joyful milestone in Sapp’s personal life . The proposal itself was a meticulously planned family affair. Sapp’s children—Marvin II, Mikaila, and Madisson—masterminded a surprise engagement celebration, cleverly disguising it as a birthday party.

Surrounded by close family and friends, including Dr. Cole’s loved ones, Sapp got down on one knee and presented his bride-to-be with a stunning diamond ring, asking for her hand in marriage . The couple, who had nurtured a friendship for over ten years, chose to keep their courtship private until they were confident in the direction of their relationship .

Who is Dr. La’Boris Cole?

Dr. La’Boris Cole is not only the fiancée of Marvin Sapp but is also an accomplished professional in her own right. A native of Mississippi, she is a visionary leader and transformative therapist whose life’s work exists at the crucial intersection of ministry, mental health, leadership, and the arts . Her mission is deeply focused on helping individuals recognize their inherent value, achieve full healing, and confidently pursue their life’s purpose .

Her professional credentials are extensive. Dr. Cole is the Founder and CEO of Cole Associates & Counselors of Texas, a multi-site behavioral health practice. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of the internationally recognized Born 2 Danz Worship Arts Conference, a testament to her ability to bridge creative expression with spiritual worship .

Her academic journey includes earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Mississippi College, followed by a doctoral degree in Clinical Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. This impressive background highlights a shared commitment with Sapp to both spiritual guidance and mental wellness .

A New Chapter After Loss and Dedication

Marvin Sapp’s journey to this moment has been one of public resilience and private devotion. His late wife, MaLinda Prince Sapp, passed away in 2010 after a battle with colon cancer, leaving him to raise their three young children . For the following years, Sapp was transparent about his focus on fatherhood and the complexities of dating again as a widower.

Now, with his children grown and even starting families of their own, this new engagement represents a full-circle moment of joy and answered prayers, as he often spoke of his desire to find love and marry again . The family’s involvement in the proposal underscores their support and happiness for their father’s new beginning .

Recent News and Continued Career Success

The exciting news of his engagement comes during a period of continued professional achievement for Marvin Sapp. In 2025, he received a Dove Award nomination for Traditional Gospel Album of the Year for his 16th solo project, Then & Now . This nomination was particularly significant as the album was released under his own independent imprint, Elev8 Media & Entertainment, marking a new phase in his role as not just an artist but also a label owner .

Looking ahead, fans can look forward to seeing him live. Sapp is scheduled to perform in several upcoming concerts, including a notable event on May 10, 2026, at the Township Auditorium in Columbia, South Carolina. He will be sharing the stage with other gospel legends such as Shirley Caesar, Deitrick Haddon, and Avery Sunshine . His career continues to be celebrated for its immense impact, having been inducted into the Black Music Entertainment Walk of Fame in 2023 and with his signature song “Never Would Have Made It” remaining one of the longest-running #1 songs in radio history .

Conclusion

The engagement of Marvin Sapp and Dr. La’Boris Cole is a heartwarming development that resonates deeply with fans who have followed his journey through both sorrow and success. It represents hope, the beauty of second chances, and the power of faith to restore joy. As they move forward, planning their wedding and combining their lives, they do so with the support of their blended family and a community of well-wishers eager to celebrate this new and wonderful chapter.