Jimmy Lee Swaggart, one of the most recognizable voices in 20th-century Pentecostalism and a pioneer of Christian television broadcasting, passed away earlier this morning in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at the age of 90. His death marks the end of an era in Spirit-filled ministry and closes the chapter on a life lived boldly at the intersection of gospel fervor, personal failure and spiritual endurance.
Born March 15, 1935, in Ferriday, Louisiana, Swaggart was a firebrand from the start. A cousin of rock-and-roll icons Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley, he chose a different stage: revival tents instead of concert halls, prayer altars instead of piano bars. He began preaching at age 20, traveling dusty Southern roads with his wife, Frances, and their baby son, Donnie, preaching wherever doors opened—churches, storefronts, and camp meetings.
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Swaggart’s rise to international fame came through television. “The Jimmy Swaggart Telecast,” launched in the 1970s, became a juggernaut of Spirit-filled programming, at its peak reaching more than 100 million people in over 100 countries. A gifted musician and soulful gospel singer, he recorded over 50 albums and sold more than 15 million records—earning Grammy nominations and Dove Awards while always centering the cross of Jesus Christ.
As a preacher, Swaggart’s style was unmistakable: weeping eyes, trembling voice, thunderous conviction. He called sinners to repentance with urgency and thundered against compromise with the zeal of an Old Testament prophet. His messages often emphasized the power of the Holy Spirit, the blood of Jesus and the nearness of Christ’s return.
Yet Swaggart’s ministry was not without profound valleys. In 1988, his public confession of moral failure during a nationally televised broadcast stunned his congregation and followers around the world. A second scandal followed in 1991, which led to his permanent separation from the Assemblies of God. Many assumed his ministry would not recover.
But Swaggart kept preaching.
Refusing to step down, he rebuilt independently with Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge as his base and the SonLife Broadcasting Network as his global voice. Alongside Frances and Donnie, he reestablished himself as a key figure in the Pentecostal world, shepherding a loyal audience that never left his side. In later years, Swaggart continued to preach multiple times a week, his health slowing him physically but never quenching his spiritual fire.
His contributions to charismatic Christianity include founding the Jimmy Swaggart Bible College, publishing dozens of books, and influencing generations of preachers through his commentary and broadcasts. His theology emphasized the centrality of the cross, the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and the urgency of salvation in the end-times.
Jimmy Swaggart is survived by his wife of over 70 years, Frances Swaggart; their son, Donnie Swaggart; grandchildren, including Pastor Gabriel Swaggart; and a spiritual family that spans continents.
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He leaves behind a complex, unforgettable legacy—one marked by revival fire, raw repentance, and the relentless mercy of God. Like King David, whose failures did not disqualify his calling, Jimmy Swaggart leaves behind not only the memory of what he did, but the evidence of the God who restored him. Funeral arrangements are pending. Memorial services will be broadcast live on SonLife Broadcasting Network.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
The world will never forget Jimmy Swaggert.
There are so many that were saved, healed and brought to a closer walk with God because of Jimmy Swaggert. We know where he is and that brings comfort and peace to all that loved him.
Jimmy Swaggart will be remembered with us. He was a great church evangelist preacher Prayers for the family
I the name of Jesus Christ I pray that the comforter will show up now to ease the pain of the home going of their beloved pastor Jimmy Swaggart to be with The Lord
Heartfelt sympathies and condolences of prayers goes out to all the families near and far. Lord we thank for the many years of service rendered to this world, Amer
I loveed to watch Rev Jummy Swaggart bible studies. He one of theost awesome and profoumd pentacostal teachers
Now. Absence in the body is present with the Lord. Now you are Resting in Peace
Jimmy Swaggart touch my life over the last 50 years. A great man of God who touch millions of people around the world. I can hear Jesus saying “Welcome Home My Child You Fought A Good Fight And You Have Run The Race Before You” May God Bless You and Rest In Peace. Looking forward to seeing my brother in heaven.