Dodie Osteen, the matriarch of the Osteen family and co-founder of Houston's Lakewood Church, has passed away at the age of 89. Her death marks the end of an era for one of America's most influential Christian ministries.
A Life of Faith and Service
Born in 1934, Dodie Osteen dedicated her life to spreading the message of faith alongside her late husband, John Osteen. Together, they transformed a small local congregation into what would become the largest church in the United States.
The Heart of Lakewood Church
Dodie's unwavering belief and personal warmth became hallmarks of Lakewood's ministry. Even after her husband's death in 1999, she remained a spiritual anchor for the church as her son Joel took over leadership.
Overcoming Health Challenges
In 1981, Dodie made headlines when she claimed to have miraculously recovered from terminal liver cancer after doctors gave her just weeks to live. This experience became a cornerstone of her testimony and inspired her book "Healed of Cancer."
A Family Legacy
Dodie is survived by her five children, including Joel Osteen who continues to lead Lakewood Church, and numerous grandchildren. The Osteen family released a statement saying: "She lived a life of purpose and devotion, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations."
Details about memorial services are expected to be announced in coming days by Lakewood Church, which now attracts over 50,000 worshippers weekly to its Houston campus.
