Dolores Osteen, the mother of the lead pastor of Lakewood Church, Joel Osteen, has died at the age of 91 years.
Naijaonpoint reports that Dolores, popularly known as “Mama Dodie,” is the co-founder of the renowned Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas.
Her death was announced by her son on Thursday via a post on X (formerly Twitter), revealing that she died of natural causes.
Joel, the lead pastor of the megachurch, 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.”
The popular clergyman described his mother as a pillar of strength and faith whose life’s mission was to serve God and uplift others.
Leading tributes for the late Mama Dodie, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, expressed deep sadness over her death.
Describing her as “a remarkable woman of deep faith and resilience,” Jonathan noted that “I join Christian around the world in mourning the passing of Mrs. Dolores Osteen, the beloved mother of Pastor Joel Osteen and co-founder of Lakewood Church.
“Mrs. Osteen was a remarkable woman of deep faith and resilience. Alongside her late husband, she helped build a ministry that continues to inspire and uplift millions across the world. Her life was a testimony to the power of prayer, the grace of perseverance, and the strength that comes from a heart anchored in God.
“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.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Pastor Joel Osteen, the entire Osteen family, and the Lakewood Church community. May God grant you peace and strength during this time.
“May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
Naijaonpoint reports that Dolores Osteen and her late husband John Osteen, founded Lakewood Church in 1959.
The church has grown into one of the largest congregations in the United States, known for its global reach and impactful ministry.
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