Archbishop Chrysostomos II of Cyprus died on Monday morning at the age of 81, following a long battle with cancer.

According to a statement issued by his doctors Joseph Kashios, Demetris Papamichael, Petros Agathangelou and Michalis Protopapas, the Head of the Church of Cyprus died at 6.40 am local time (4.40 am GMT).

He died peacefully after facing with courage and patience his ordeal, due to his illness, the statement reads.

Cyprus Chrysostomos II a "prominent and important figure of the Church of Cyprus" leaves behind him a visionary and bold work, aiming at highlighting and restoring the Church’s historical tradition, along with innovative changes, it is added.

The late Archbishop was born on April 10, 1941 in Tala, Paphos. According to the Church of Cyprus website, on February 26, 1978, he was ordained Paphos Bishop.

On November 5, 2006 he became Archbishop of Cyprus and was enthroned on November 12, 2006.