Dodie Osteen, Beloved Matriarch of Lakewood Church, Dies at 91

HOUSTON, TX — July 30, 2025
Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, co-founder of Lakewood Church and cherished spiritual matriarch to millions, has passed away peacefully at the age of 91. Her death was confirmed by her son, Pastor Joel Osteen, in a heartfelt statement shared on Tuesday.

“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,” the statement reads. “She was the beloved matriarch of Lakewood Church, an inspiration to millions of people around the world, and a faithful servant of God.”

Dodie Osteen, affectionately known as “Mama Dodie” to members of Lakewood Church and countless followers around the globe, passed away of natural causes in her Houston home, surrounded by family.

A Life Rooted in Faith and Family

Born in 1934, Dodie Osteen lived a life defined by unwavering faith, compassion, and devotion to ministry. Alongside her husband, the late Pastor John Osteen, she co-founded Lakewood Church in 1959—a small, humble congregation that would grow into one of the largest and most influential megachurches in the world.

For decades, she stood faithfully at her husband’s side, supporting his ministry and helping lead Lakewood’s spiritual community. After Pastor John’s passing in 1999, Dodie continued to serve as a constant source of encouragement and spiritual wisdom, especially as her son Joel assumed leadership of the church.

Though she never sought the spotlight, Dodie became a pillar of strength and grace in the church, often speaking softly but powerfully about the miracles of healing, the importance of prayer, and God’s unfailing love.

Her book, Healed of Cancer, chronicled her miraculous recovery from a terminal cancer diagnosis in 1981—a story that inspired millions and solidified her legacy as a woman of resilient faith.

An Enduring Legacy of Love and Hope

Dodie Osteen’s impact extended far beyond the pulpit. Her influence reached hospitals, prisons, shelters, and international missions. She was a frequent presence in Lakewood’s outreach programs, never hesitating to pray personally for those in need.

Many of Lakewood’s 50,000 weekly attendees and millions of global viewers considered her a spiritual mother, often crediting her gentle prayers and firm belief in God’s promises for giving them hope in their darkest hours.

“She had a rare and beautiful gift,” said one Lakewood member. “She could walk into a room, hold your hand, and suddenly, your entire world felt calmer. That was her anointing.”

Remembering Mama Dodie

Tributes have poured in from around the world—church leaders, public figures, and ordinary people whose lives were touched by Dodie’s ministry.

“She lived her life with integrity, humility, and pure faith,” Joel Osteen said. “She was the heart of our family and the soul of Lakewood Church.”

A public celebration of life service is expected to be announced in the coming days at Lakewood Church in Houston, where thousands are anticipated to gather in remembrance.

Dodie Osteen is survived by her children—including Joel, Lisa, and Paul—and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, many of whom are active in ministry.

A Faithful Finish

Even in her later years, Dodie remained a regular presence at church services, sitting quietly on the front row, smiling, worshipping, and praying with others after services. Until her final days, she continued her private ministry of writing letters, making phone calls, and visiting the sick—reminding each person she encountered that they were loved by God.

Her passing leaves a deep void, but her legacy will live on in every life she touched.

“She fought the good fight, she finished the race, and she kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7