A Christian missionary leader and his daughter were killed in a plane crash in South Florida while on their way to deliver humanitarian aid to Jamaica.

Evangelist Alexander Wurm, 53, founder of Ignite the Fire Ministry, and his daughter Serena Wurm, 22, died on Monday when their small aircraft went down shortly after takeoff. The pair were en route to assist with hurricane relief efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean.

In a statement shared by the ministry, Alexander was remembered as a man whose life was defined by compassion, prayer, and a deep commitment to sharing the gospel.

“Alexander, known for his warmth and unwavering kindness, devoted his life to serving others—both through his actions and by sharing the gospel across the globe,” the statement read. “He wasn’t just a man of prayer—he lived it, fasting and listening for God’s voice as if it were the most natural conversation.”

Those who knew him described him as a teacher, mentor, and friend who gave freely of his time, energy, and heart.

“He had an uncanny ability to break down the most difficult truths into something we could actually grasp,” the ministry said. “Beyond all his roles—husband, father, friend, counselor—he was someone you could be completely honest with, and he’d meet you there with grace and understanding.”

Wurm founded Ignite the Fire Ministry, a Christian organization dedicated to empowering youth through missions and evangelism across the Caribbean. The ministry seeks to raise up volunteers passionate about making a difference through leadership, compassion, and community service.

Throughout his ministry, Wurm traveled extensively, bringing faith, practical help, and hope to communities in need. Ignite the Fire said his work spanned several countries and continents and that he was always “ready to lend an ear or a hand.”

A recent post on the charity’s Facebook page showed volunteers delivering aid to Jamaica in the aftermath of the hurricane last week.

Alexander is survived by his wife, Candace, son James, and daughter Christiana.

Serena, who was following in her father’s footsteps, was remembered as a “beacon of empathy and hope,” inspiring others through her dedication to humanitarian work and her joyful spirit.

“Together, their final journey embodied selflessness and courage, reminding us of the power of service and love,” the ministry said.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.