Houston, TX – Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, the beloved matriarch and co-founder of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home on July 30, 2025, at the age of 91. Her son, Pastor Joel Osteen, announced her passing, describing her as an inspiration to millions and a faithful servant of God. Known affectionately as “Mama Dodie” to the Lakewood Church community, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy of faith, resilience, and service.

A Life of Faith and Service

Born on October 22, 1933, in Baytown, Texas, Dodie Osteen grew up in a modest family, with her father, Roy Pilgrim, working at an oil refinery in Humble for 37 years. As a young girl, she overcame polio, a testament to her enduring strength, which would later define her life’s work. After attending nursing school, Dodie met John Osteen, a local pastor, at the hospital where she worked. Their love story began in 1954, culminating in a 44-year marriage that laid the foundation for Lakewood Church.

On Mother’s Day, May 10, 1959, Dodie and John Osteen founded Lakewood Church in a converted feed store in northeast Houston. Initially a Baptist congregation, the church evolved into a non-denominational, charismatic ministry under John’s leadership, reflecting their shared vision of inclusivity and spiritual growth. Dodie was a vital partner in this endeavor, serving as an encourager and prayer leader, earning her the title of Lakewood’s “Queen Mother.” The church grew from humble beginnings to become one of America’s largest congregations, now housed in the former Compaq Center, with an average weekly attendance of over 45,000 and a global reach through televised services.

Triumph Over Adversity

Dodie Osteen’s life was marked by profound challenges and miraculous triumphs. In 1958, the couple faced a crisis when their daughter Lisa was born with severe health issues due to an umbilical cord complication. Through fervent prayer, they witnessed her recovery, an experience that deepened their faith and shaped Lakewood’s charismatic foundation. Years later, in 1981, Dodie faced her own battle with metastatic liver cancer, a diagnosis that gave her only weeks to live. Rejecting despair, she turned to scripture and prayer, crediting her faith for her complete recovery. This experience became a cornerstone of her ministry, inspiring her to pray for the sick and share her testimony worldwide.

Dodie authored several books, including Healed of Cancer (1986) and If My Heart Could Talk (2016), where she detailed her journey of faith and healing. Her monthly prayer services at Lakewood drew people from around the world seeking her intercession, and she was a regular participant in the church’s “Night of Hope” events, sharing her story of divine intervention.

A Lasting Legacy

Dodie Osteen’s influence extended beyond Lakewood’s walls. She and John hosted a weekly television program that reached over 100 countries, spreading their message of hope and faith. After John’s death in 1999 from a heart attack, Dodie remained a pillar of the church, supporting her son Joel as he assumed the role of senior pastor. Under Joel and his wife Victoria’s leadership, Lakewood grew exponentially, becoming a global ministry with millions of weekly viewers.

Known for her warmth and humility, Dodie was a mother to five children—Joel, Paul, Lisa, April, and Tamara—and a proud grandmother to Jonathan and Alexandra Osteen, who continue the family’s legacy at Lakewood. Her commitment to prayer and her belief in miracles touched countless lives, earning her admiration as a spiritual giant.

Tributes and Remembrances

Joel Osteen shared a heartfelt statement on social media: “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.” The family noted that she passed peacefully of natural causes, surrounded by loved ones.

Lakewood Church will hold a memorial service to celebrate Dodie’s life on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. at their Houston sanctuary. The service will be broadcast worldwide, allowing her global community to join in honoring her legacy.

A Life Well-Lived

Dodie Osteen’s journey from a small-town girl to a global spiritual leader is a testament to her unwavering faith and dedication. Her story of overcoming polio, cancer, and personal loss resonated with millions, offering hope and encouragement. As Lakewood Church continues to thrive, Dodie’s spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched through her prayers, writings, and steadfast love for God and family.

For more information about Dodie Osteen’s life and legacy, visit Lakewood Church’s official website.