Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart has died two weeks after suffering cardiac arrest and a day after he was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame at the age of 90
Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart has died at the age of 90. His death comes two weeks after he was rushed to hospital following cardiac arrest at his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
His son Donnie confirmed his dad had faced an uphill battle after losing consciousness during the medical incident a fortnight ago. Speaking to ABC affiliate WBRZ-TV prior to his death, Donnie said: “Without a miracle, his time is short.”
His family PR, Megan Kelly, also told the outlet that Swaggart had been transported to hospital following the medical emergency. Kelly said: “Ambulances were able to respond very quickly.
“They gave him CPR, they took turns doing it, and you can imagine how emotional that was and how stressful that was in that moment.”
A day before he died, Swaggart was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Swaggart was best known for his dramatic appearances in front of huge crowds. He was known as being the leader behind the SonLife Broadcasting Network and also pastor of the Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge.
Swaggart was the cousin of Jerry Lee Lewis and often spoke of the rock pioneer in his sermons. In 1981, Swaggart received a Grammy nomination for Best Gospel Performance for his album titled Worship.
He was also known for his rivalries with other theatrical televangelists, including Jim Bakker and Orel Roberts.
Throughout his career, Swaggart raised more than $100million for his ministry.
Taking to Twitter/X following the news, fans and followers paid tribute. Among them were pastors of Great Life Church, who wrote: “We are lifting up the entire Swaggart family in prayer during this very difficult time. Evangelist Jimmy Swaggart made an eternal impact in our world and will be greatly missed.”
Tony Suarez also shared a touching tribute, saying Swaggart had been a hero since childhood. “I wanted to play the piano like him and of course preach like him,” he wrote.
“He was faithful to the calling on his life and loved by millions. From singing to preaching; from radio, television and every sort of media available to humankind, Bro. Jimmy made sure to lift up Jesus and the Message of the Cross. Two years ago, thanks to his grandson Gabe, I was able to meet and spend time with my hero, Bro. Jimmy, something I’ll never forget.
He ended by saying: “May we honor their legacy, work like they worked, sacrifice like they sacrificed, and may our motives be pure and selfless, may it all be about Jesus. Well done, Bro. Jimmy. A life that was changed by yours.”
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