The global Christian community is mourning the passing of Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, the revered co-founder of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, who died peacefully at the age of 91. Affectionately known as “Mama Dodie,” she was a beloved spiritual matriarch whose influence extended far beyond the walls of the megachurch she helped build.
Her son, Pastor Joel Osteen, the current senior pastor of Lakewood Church and one of America’s most influential televangelists, announced the news of her death on Thursday, August 1, via a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter).
“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,” Joel Osteen wrote. “She was a pillar of unwavering faith, compassion, and grace.”
Although the cause of death has not been publicly detailed, multiple media reports confirmed that Mama Dodie passed away peacefully of natural causes.
A Legacy of Faith and Resilience
Born in 1933, Dodie Osteen co-founded Lakewood Church in 1959 alongside her late husband, John Osteen, in a small feed store in Houston. The couple’s vision and faith-driven mission transformed the church from humble beginnings into one of the largest congregations in the United States, drawing tens of thousands of weekly attendees and millions of global television viewers.
Despite personal health challenges—including a terminal cancer diagnosis in 1981, which she miraculously survived—Mama Dodie remained an enduring symbol of resilience. She frequently shared her healing testimony, inspiring countless believers worldwide.
She was also known for her deeply personal ministry, often visiting the sick and praying for people one-on-one, even into her later years. Many Lakewood members affectionately recall her handwritten prayer notes and warm hugs.
Global Reactions: From U.S. to Africa
Tributes have been pouring in from leaders and admirers across the world, including from Africa, where the Osteen family has a strong following due to Lakewood’s widespread broadcast reach.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan expressed his condolences in a statement issued Thursday night, describing Mama Dodie as “a remarkable woman of deep faith and resilience.”
“Her legacy will endure not only through the continued impact of Lakewood Church, but also through the countless lives she touched with her kindness and deep faith,” Jonathan said.
Many African church leaders and Christian communities took to social media to honour her life and influence, highlighting her as a “mother of the faith” who showed unwavering strength through trials and a lifetime of ministry.
A Life Marked by Service and Healing
Mama Dodie’s impact extended far beyond her administrative role as a co-founder. She authored several books, most notably Healed of Cancer, which chronicles her miraculous recovery and has been translated into multiple languages. The book continues to serve as a source of hope and faith for those battling illness.
She was also an integral part of Lakewood’s healing ministry. Even in her later years, she remained visible, frequently praying for individuals after Sunday services.
“She never sought the spotlight, but she was always the light,” wrote Victoria Osteen, her daughter-in-law and Lakewood’s co-pastor. “Her love for people was limitless.”
Lakewood Church, now a 16,000-seat megachurch, is one of the most watched churches in the world. Under Joel Osteen’s leadership, the church has expanded significantly, but many insiders and longtime members credit Mama Dodie for keeping the ministry rooted in its original purpose of love, faith, and personal care.
Tributes from the Broader Christian Community
American faith leaders including T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyer, and Franklin Graham also issued statements celebrating Mama Dodie’s life and ministry.
“She exemplified what it means to be faithful—not just in public ministry but in private devotion,” Bishop T.D. Jakes said. “Her spiritual legacy will outlive all of us.”
In Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya, various churches have scheduled special prayer sessions in her honour, underscoring her influence across the African continent. Several pastors spoke of how her healing story and faith journey strengthened their own spiritual walk.
A Family’s Grief, A World’s Mourning
Mama Dodie is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and an extended Lakewood Church family. Her passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the church’s storied history, but her memory remains firmly embedded in the hearts of millions.
In a follow-up post, Joel Osteen thanked the public for their overwhelming support and prayers.
“My mother was the embodiment of love, and we feel the embrace of your kindness during this difficult time. We are comforted knowing that she is with my dad, rejoicing in Heaven.”
A celebration of life service will be held at Lakewood Church in the coming days, with details to be announced.
