A community in Charlotte, North Carolina, is in mourning following the death of their pastor, who died when a gun he was cleaning accidentally discharged.

Bishop Phillip Davis, founder and senior pastor at Nations Ford Community Church was found dead Tuesday on the eve of his birthday.

Davis served as preacher for more than 40 years, according to WCNC TV network in Charlotte.

Church spokesperson Jacinda Garabito said church members were scheduled to celebrate the founding anniversary of the church as well as the wedding anniversary of the Davis couple and his birthday.

"Today was going to be a huge celebration for all of us," Garabito said. "The congregation, family, friends, and it's just a huge shock. You feel the spirit in here. It is a very sad day. It is a very heavy day."

According to the Union County Sheriff's Office, Davis died from an accidental gunshot wound while cleaning his gun as he was planning to make a trip to the firing range. His wife Cynthia found him dead inside their home.

"Holding up as well as she possibly can at this point," Garabito said. "So we're just praying for her and their three kids."

The Nations Ford Community Church said Davis "planted several churches throughout the United States."

He founded the Male Leadership Academy of Charlotte and Envision Life School of Leadership and Ministry. He also authored two books, "The Vision Casting Congregation" and "Father Force." A third book titled "The Untapped Power of a Man" was set to be released.

Garabito said church members are consoling each other in prayer. "We're taking in the teachings that Bishop Davis has taught us," he said.

"Black lives matter, blue lives matter, all lives matter," Garabito said. "And Bishop Davis would even preach about this. That was part of his legacy."

To honour Davis, the church has organised prayer services and memorial service.