With heavy hearts and a deep sense of gratitude, the Osteen family and the global Christian community mourn the passing of Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, the revered co-founder and spiritual matriarch of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. Dodie passed away peacefully of natural causes on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by her loved ones and strengthened by the unwavering faith that defined every moment of her extraordinary life.
In a moving tribute shared across social media, her son and senior pastor of Lakewood Church, 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.”
A Life Rooted in Faith and Love
Born with a heart for ministry and a gift for encouragement, Dodie Osteen stood alongside her late husband, Pastor John Osteen, as they founded Lakewood Church on Mother’s Day in 1959. What began in a small feed store outside of Houston quickly grew into a multicultural, international ministry that now reaches millions of people each week across the globe. Dodie and John were pioneers of a faith-based movement that emphasized God’s love, the power of healing, and the belief that every life has purpose.
Though never one to seek the spotlight, Dodie’s quiet strength and nurturing spirit made her a cornerstone of Lakewood’s growth and identity. Her gentle presence, often seen sitting on the front row, praying with individuals, or writing heartfelt notes to visitors and longtime members alike, became an enduring symbol of the church’s compassionate soul.
A Testimony That Inspired Generations
In 1981, Dodie Osteen was diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer and given just weeks to live. Refusing to surrender to the grim diagnosis, she turned fully to her faith, anchoring herself in Scripture and surrounding herself with prayer. Her recovery — medically unexplainable but spiritually undeniable — became a powerful testament to divine healing. She detailed this journey in her widely read book, Healed of Cancer (1986), which continues to offer hope and encouragement to those facing terminal illness.
Her healing was more than a miracle — it was a mission. She used her testimony to minister to thousands, personally praying over the sick, laying hands on those in need, and writing countless letters of hope to the brokenhearted. For decades, “Mama Dodie” carried a prayer list with her everywhere, making sure no request was forgotten, no name overlooked.
A Global Ministry Built on a Mother’s Faith
Today, Lakewood Church stands as one of the largest and most influential churches in America, broadcasting weekly from the former Houston Summit/Compaq Center, a symbol of how far the church has come — and how deeply it remains rooted in its founders’ simple faith. That faith, taught and lived by Dodie, has touched millions.
Even after Pastor John Osteen’s passing in 1999, Dodie remained a guiding light for the church, supporting her son Joel as he stepped into the senior pastor role. Her faith, wisdom, and humility continued to be a steady foundation for the Lakewood family, and her presence reminded everyone of the power of perseverance and prayer.
Remembering a Life Well Lived
Dodie Osteen’s impact extends far beyond the walls of Lakewood Church. She was a woman of deep compassion, fierce resilience, and boundless love. Her handwritten notes, warm hugs, and prayerful words uplifted people from every walk of life. Whether she was ministering to a congregation of thousands or comforting a stranger in need, Dodie’s presence reflected the heart of Christ.
She is survived by her children, including Joel and Lisa Osteen, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and an extended family both biological and spiritual — including millions who looked to her as a mother in faith.
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
The world mourns the passing of a true servant of God, but we also celebrate the remarkable legacy she leaves behind. Dodie Osteen showed what it meant to live with humility, to lead through love, and to fight life’s battles on your knees in prayer.
Funeral and memorial details will be released by the Osteen family in the coming days, and Lakewood Church is preparing to honor her life with a service that reflects her enduring faith, her steadfast spirit, and her immeasurable impact.
As we say goodbye to Dodie Osteen, we do so with both tears and thanksgiving — for her love, her testimony, her leadership, and her unshakable belief that “With God, all things are possible.”
Rest in peace, Mama Dodie. Your legacy of faith will live on forever.
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