Dolores Osteen, popularly known as “Mama Dodie” and co-founder of the world-famous Lakewood Church in the United States, has died at the age of 91.
Her son, Joel Osteen, a well-known televangelist and current pastor of Lakewood Church, announced her passing in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday. He said she died peacefully of natural causes.
“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 message read.
Mama Dodie, as she was fondly called by many followers, helped start Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, alongside her late husband, John Osteen, in 1959. Over the years, the church grew to become one of the largest in the United States, with millions of followers across the world.
Her death has drawn tributes from around the world, including from Nigeria.
Former Nigerian President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, expressed sadness over her passing in a statement on Thursday night. He described her as a “remarkable woman of deep faith and resilience.”
“She touched many lives through her kindness and belief in God. Her legacy will live on, not just through the continued work of Lakewood Church, but also in the lives of the people she helped and inspired,” Jonathan said.
Dolores Osteen is remembered for her strength, compassion, and deep Christian faith. She is survived by her children and grandchildren.
