Jim Bakker, the once-prominent televangelist whose career was marked by both Christian broadcasting success and scandal—including a $279,000 hush-money settlement involving his church secretary—has died at age 86, his widow announced Monday.
“With a broken heart, I share that my beloved husband, Jim Bakker, went home to be with the Lord this evening,” Lori Bakker said in a statement posted to The Jim Bakker Show Facebook page.
Lori Bakker said her husband had spent 66 years preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ and helped shape the early era of Christian television. To her, however, he was first and foremost her husband, closest friend and a life partner whose ministry journey she was honored to share.
Bakker became a household name after launching The PTL Club, a Christian television program he co-hosted with his first wife, Tammy Faye Bakker, from 1974 through 1989.
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According to Lori Bakker, Jim remained devoted to his ministry, its supporters and the people he served. She said that even during his final days, he continued to focus on spreading the Gospel and advancing the work of the organization.
“Our family is grieving, and we respectfully ask for prayers and privacy,” she wrote. “Jim completed his race in faith. His voice, vision and legacy will remain unforgettable.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
