The renowned preacher and gospel singer has died at 90, ending a spiritual journey that spanned more than seven decades.<\/p>\n
Jimmy Swaggart, the globally recognized Pentecostal televangelist and musician, died on July 1, 2025, at the age of 90. His passing was announced on his official social media channels, marking the conclusion of an era that deeply shaped evangelical broadcasting and inspired countless followers worldwide.<\/p>\n
The announcement opened with the Bible verse 2 Timothy 4:7\u20138: \u201cI have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The post went on to say, \u201cToday is the day he sang about for so many years. He has met his Savior and entered into glory.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n For more than 70 years, Jimmy dedicated his life to preaching and sharing the gospel through music and television. His unwavering message and powerful voice made him a comforting and constant figure for believers across the globe.<\/p>\n The tribute described him not only as a preacher but also as a worshiper and a devoted witness to God\u2019s mercy. He was known for embracing every opportunity his faith brought.<\/p>\n His family also expressed their gratitude to the staff and medical team at Baton Rouge General Medical Center for their dedicated care.<\/p>\n They asked supporters to keep his wife, Frances, and their entire family \u2014 including Donnie, Debbie, Gabriel, Jill, Jennifer, Clif, Matt, Joanna, Sam, Ryder, Abby, Lola, Harper, Navy, Harrison, Caroline, and Mackenzie \u2014 in their prayers during this difficult time.<\/p>\n In the weeks leading up to his passing, the Swaggart family had requested prayers several times. On June 15, a plea on Jimmy\u2019s Instagram page asked for a miracle from heaven.<\/p>\n By June 17, he remained in critical condition. In an emotional video update that day, Donnie shared that although his father showed no improvement, he spent time with him in the hospital, reading scripture.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have to accept reality, but we always leave room for God\u2019s miracles,\u201d Donnie explained.<\/p>\n His wife, Frances, faced these final days with incredible strength. Donnie called her \u201cthe rock and the strength of our family and this ministry,\u201d noting that she stayed by Jimmy\u2019s side constantly, only leaving briefly to rest or eat. He encouraged everyone to pray for her continued strength.<\/p>\n A special prayer service took place on June 18 at the Family Worship Center, replacing the usual Wednesday evening service. It was broadcast online and on the SonLife Broadcasting Network, serving both as an update and a call for communal prayer.<\/p>\n By June 29, Donnie addressed the congregation once again, sharing that Jimmy\u2019s condition had deteriorated further and that the family had gathered together, knowing his passing was near.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s heartbreaking, but everyone will reach their finish line someday,\u201d Donnie said during the sermon. \u201cAnd when you know who\u2019s waiting to greet you and say, \u2018Well done, thou good and faithful servant,\u2019 there is peace.\u201d<\/p>\n Jimmy\u2019s death has prompted many to reflect on a remarkable life. Born in Ferriday, Louisiana, he grew up in poverty and a deeply religious household. His family included famous musical relatives like Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley.<\/p>\n From a young age, he was drawn to Pentecostal faith \u2014 reportedly speaking in tongues at nine and playing piano in church as a child.<\/p>\n He married Frances in 1952, and together they traveled throughout rural Louisiana, preaching wherever they could, including from the back of a flatbed truck. His passionate sermons and energetic gospel music recalled the fervor of old-time revival meetings.<\/p>\n Ordained in 1961 by the Assemblies of God, he began his television ministry in 1975. By the 1980s, Jimmy had become one of the most well-known televangelists in America.<\/p>\n At his height in 1987, around 2.1 million viewers tuned in weekly to his broadcasts. His influence even extended into politics, with connections to the Reagan administration and support from Christian conservatives.<\/p>\n However, his career was not without controversy. In 1988, after criticizing another minister for moral failings, Jimmy himself became embroiled in a scandal involving sex workers.<\/p>\n He tearfully confessed on live TV and was suspended, then defrocked, by the Assemblies of God. A second scandal followed in 1991, and although his national influence diminished, he continued to preach through a nondenominational ministry.<\/p>\n Jimmy left behind a vast legacy of gospel recordings, sermons, and religious publications. His impassioned preaching, musical talent, and adherence to \u201cold-time religion\u201d made him a distinct figure in televangelism.<\/p>\n In his later years, his family \u2014 especially Donnie and Gabriel \u2014 stepped up to lead the ministry and carry on his work.<\/p>\n Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Swaggart family during this period of mourning.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"