Jimmy Swaggart death has been confirmed. The famous televangelist died at age 90 on July 1, 2025. His death came weeks after he suffered cardiac arrest on June 15 at his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Swaggart was a well-known preacher, singer, and television figure. He became one of the biggest names in American televangelism. His life was marked by faith, scandal, and a long public ministry.
Jimmy Swaggart Death: What Happened?
Jimmy Swaggart death was announced by his family and ministry. He went into cardiac arrest at his Baton Rouge home in mid-June. He was rushed to the hospital and placed under care. His son Donnie Swaggart shared updates, saying he was in serious but stable condition.
After nearly two weeks, Swaggart passed away. His family said he “went to be with the Lord.” The news was shared on the SonLife Broadcasting Network, which he founded.
Early Life of Jimmy Swaggart
Jimmy Swaggart was born on March 15, 1935, in Ferriday, Louisiana. He came from a musical and religious family. His cousins included Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley.
Swaggart started preaching in the 1950s. He and his wife Frances traveled to churches and revival meetings. They often sang and played music as part of worship.
In the early years, Swaggart had little money. He preached in small churches and lived simply. But his passion for ministry kept growing.
Rise to Fame in Televangelism
Swaggart rose to national fame in the 1970s and 1980s. He launched Jimmy Swaggart Ministries and began broadcasting on TV. His sermons reached homes across America.
He founded the Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge. He also launched the SonLife Broadcasting Network, which still runs today.
Swaggart’s style was loud, emotional, and full of music. He played piano, sang gospel songs, and preached about sin and salvation. His programs aired in many countries and brought in millions of viewers.
Jimmy Swaggart’s Influence
During the peak of his ministry, Jimmy Swaggart was one of the most watched preachers on TV. He sold gospel records and wrote Christian books. He started a Bible college and helped train new ministers.
He preached a message of faith, repentance, and personal change. Many people said his sermons brought them comfort and hope. His music also played a big role in his work.
By the 1980s, his ministry brought in millions of dollars each year. Swaggart became a powerful voice in evangelical circles.
Scandals That Shook His Ministry
The first major scandal came in 1988. Swaggart admitted to sexual misconduct involving a prostitute. He gave a tearful confession on live TV, saying, “I have sinned.”
His church suspended him, and his TV audience dropped. He lost trust among many followers.
A second scandal in 1991 made things worse. He was found with another woman in California. This time, he gave no public apology. His audience and income shrank again.
These events changed his image forever. While some stayed loyal, many turned away. His ministry never returned to its former size.
Life After the Scandals
Despite the scandals, Swaggart did not quit. He kept preaching at the Family Worship Center. He also kept his network, books, and music going.
His son Donnie Swaggart and grandson Gabriel became leaders in the church. They now host many of the broadcasts on SonLife.
Swaggart focused more on church services and less on national speaking. His later years were quieter, but he stayed active in faith work.
Many followers praised his long-term commitment. Others still questioned his past actions. But no one denied his impact on modern faith media.
Jimmy Swaggart Death: Reactions and Legacy
News of Jimmy Swaggart death spread quickly. Some religious leaders praised his years of preaching. Others noted his mistakes. Online posts reflected mixed views.
Supporters said he brought God’s word into their homes. Critics remembered the scandals. Both sides agreed his voice was known across the country.
Swaggart left behind:
- Over 50 Christian books
- Hundreds of gospel songs
- A 70-year preaching career
- A broadcasting network
- A Bible college and large church
His wife Frances and son Donnie survive him. The family plans to continue his ministry.
Why Jimmy Swaggart Mattered
Swaggart shaped the rise of American televangelism. His programs came before the internet and reached families through TV and radio. He was part preacher, part performer.
His story shows both the power and the risk of public faith work. Fame brought him influence. It also brought hard consequences.
Even with setbacks, Jimmy Swaggart stayed in ministry until his final days. His life was complex. It had high points and deep lows. But it left a mark on American religion.
Final Thoughts on Jimmy Swaggart Death
The Jimmy Swaggart death marks the end of an era. He preached to millions, sang gospel songs, and led a major Christian ministry. His public failures hurt his image, but his impact remains.
Many will remember his voice, his piano, and his message. Others will remember the scandals. Both are part of his story.
His ministry continues through his family and his network. As the news of Jimmy Swaggart death spreads, people reflect on faith, fame, and forgiveness.
Whether you loved or disliked him, his name will be part of religious history in the United States.
