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Dolores Osteen, Co-Founder of Lakewood Church, Dies at 91

Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, beloved co-founder of Lakewood Church and mother of renowned pastor Joel Osteen, has died at the age of 91.

Her death, attributed to natural causes, was confirmed on Thursday by her son in 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.

Fondly known as “Mama Dodie,” Mrs. Osteen co-founded Lakewood Church in 1959 alongside her late husband, John Osteen. From its humble beginnings in a former feed store in Houston, Lakewood has grown to become one of the largest and most influential megachurches in the United States, with a global audience and weekly services reaching millions.

Mrs. Osteen remained an enduring spiritual figure within the church long after her husband’s death in 1999. Known for her unwavering faith, compassion, and resilience, she ministered to thousands, often praying personally for the sick and offering spiritual counsel.

Her passing has drawn tributes from religious leaders and dignitaries around the world. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan expressed his condolences in a statement released Thursday night, describing her 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 unwavering belief in God.”

In 1981, Dolores Osteen was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer and given only weeks to live. Her recovery, which she credited entirely to prayer and divine healing, became a powerful part of her testimony and inspired her popular book Healed of Cancer, which continues to encourage believers worldwide.

She is survived by her children, including Joel and Dr. Paul Osteen, her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom continue her legacy of ministry and service.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly announced.

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