Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Lakewood Church’s Beloved “Mama Dodie”
HOUSTON, TX – July 31, 2025 – The Lakewood Church community and millions worldwide are grieving the passing of Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, the cherished matriarch of Lakewood Church, who died peacefully at her home of natural causes at the age of 91. Known affectionately as “Mama Dodie,” she was a beacon of faith, resilience, and love, inspiring countless lives through her unwavering devotion to God and her family.
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Pastor Joel Osteen, Dodie’s son, shared the news in a heartfelt statement: “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.”
Dodie Osteen, alongside her late husband, Pastor John Osteen, co-founded Lakewood Church in 1959 in a modest feed store on the outskirts of Houston. What began as a small congregation grew into one of the largest churches in the United States, now housed in the former Compaq Center. Dodie’s warmth and compassion helped shape Lakewood’s identity as an “Oasis of Love,” a nickname that reflects her enduring influence. She remained a pillar of the church, leading prayer services and offering hope to those in need, even after John’s passing in 1999, when Joel assumed the role of senior pastor.
A woman of remarkable faith, Dodie’s life was marked by miracles. In 1981, she was diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer and given weeks to live. Through prayer and trust in God, she defied the prognosis, living over four decades beyond her diagnosis. Her story of healing was chronicled in her 1986 book, Healed of Cancer, which continues to inspire readers worldwide. She also authored If My Heart Could Talk, a memoir reflecting on her life, family, and the miracles that shaped her ministry.
Born in Baytown, Texas, Dodie trained as a nurse and met John Osteen while working at a hospital. Their love story, rooted in faith, led to a 44-year marriage and five children—Paul, Lisa, Tamara, Joel, and April—all of whom serve in ministry. Dodie’s legacy extends beyond her family to the millions who found hope through her prayers, writings, and the global reach of Lakewood’s broadcasts.
Tributes have poured in from faith leaders. Pastor Jentezen Franklin said, “Dodie Osteen was a great woman of faith who touched lives all over the world. Her love for Jesus and gentle strength led thousands to Christ.” Pastor John Hagee added, “What John and Dodie Osteen accomplished for the kingdom of God is legendary. Dodie was an inspiration to all who knew her.”
The Osteen family has not yet announced details about funeral services. The Lakewood community invites all to join in celebrating Dodie’s extraordinary life and legacy of faith.
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