HOUSTON, TX — Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, the beloved mother of Lakewood Church Pastor Joel Osteen, has passed away at the age of 91. The news was shared by Joel Osteen and his wife, Victoria, through social media on Wednesday.
In an emotional post on Facebook, Instagram, and X, Pastor Joel Osteen wrote:
“It is with a heavy heart that Victoria and I, along with our family, announce the passing of our cherished mother and grandmother, Dolores ‘Dodie’ Osteen. She was the beloved matriarch of Lakewood Church, an inspiration to millions of people around the world, and a faithful servant of God. Known as ‘Mama Dodie’ to the entire Lakewood family, together, we celebrate her amazing life and lasting legacy. She passed of natural causes, peacefully at her home. She was 91 years old.”
Dodie Osteen, who was affectionately known as “Mama Dodie” by the Lakewood Church community, played a central role in the church’s growth and spiritual leadership. Alongside her late husband, Pastor John Osteen, she co-founded Lakewood Church in 1959. Together, they led the church for more than four decades before their son, Joel Osteen, became the senior pastor in 1999 following John’s passing.
Dodie Osteen was not only known for her faith and leadership but also for her remarkable personal journey. She authored the powerful memoir “Healed of Cancer” in 1986, which chronicled her miraculous recovery from metastatic liver cancer, a testament to her unwavering faith in God’s healing power.
Lakewood Church, which began with humble roots on the outskirts of Houston, now holds services in the former Houston Summit, the Compaq Center, located on the Southwest Freeway. What started as a small gathering on Mother’s Day in 1959 has grown into a global ministry, with services broadcast worldwide to millions of viewers.
Dodie Osteen’s legacy lives on through her family, her work with the church, and the countless lives she touched throughout her lifetime. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and the extended Lakewood family who will continue to honor her impact for generations to come.
Our heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to the Osteen family during this difficult time as they grieve the loss of a cherished matriarch and spiritual leader.
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