Remembering Mama Dodie: A Tribute to Dolores Osteen, Co-Founder of Lakewood Church
Joel Osteen, the pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, shared the sad news of his mother's passing on social media. Dolores Osteen, affectionately known as "Mama Dodie," was a beloved figure in the church community and a faithful servant of God. She peacefully passed away at the age of 91 at her home due to natural causes.
Dodie Osteen, along with her late husband John Osteen, founded Lakewood Church in 1959. Their son, Joel Osteen, took over as the senior pastor after their four-decade leadership. Dodie Osteen's book "Healed of Cancer," published in 1986, chronicled her battle with metastatic liver cancer and inspired many with her story.
The first Lakewood Church meeting took place on Mother's Day in 1959 on the outskirts of Houston. Today, the church holds services at the former Houston Summit and Compaq Center on the Southwest Freeway, reaching a global audience through broadcast services. John Osteen, Dodie's husband, passed away in 1999 at the age of 77.
In memory of Dolores "Dodie" Osteen, the Lakewood family celebrates her remarkable life and enduring legacy. She will be dearly missed but remembered for her dedication to serving God and inspiring millions worldwide.