Joni Lamb, Daystar Television Co-Founder, Dies at 65

Key facts

• Joni Lamb, President and co-founder of Daystar TV ministry, has died at age 65.
• Her death followed a serious, private health struggle that was worsened by a recent back injury.
• Lamb was married for 39 years to ministry co-founder Marcus, who passed away in 2021.
• She is survived by her husband Doug and three children: Jonathan, Rachel, and Rebecca.
• Daystar TV ministry announced plans to continue broadcasting the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
• Paula White-Cain, a friend and fellow evangelist, confirmed Lamb's passing.
• Lamb's last social media message spoke of "battles we face always won on our knees."

A Pioneer Departs

Joni Lamb, the dynamic President and co-founder of the Daystar Television Network, has died at the age of 65. Her passing was announced by the ministry, which stated she had "gone home to be with the Lord." Lamb was a pivotal figure in Christian broadcasting, co-founding one of the world's largest Christian television networks alongside her late first husband, Marcus. The news has sent ripples through religious and broadcasting communities, with tributes pouring in from fellow ministers and congregants. Lamb's death marks the end of an era for the ministry she helped build over three decades. Her family has requested prayers and privacy during this period of mourning as they navigate their loss.

Health Struggle and Final Days

The ministry detailed that Lamb had been enduring a serious, private health struggle for some time. This pre-existing condition was significantly complicated by a recent back injury. "The back injury compounded those challenges and led to a more serious medical situation than anyone anticipated," the Daystar statement explained. Despite the intensive efforts of her medical team and the global prayers of supporters, her condition deteriorated rapidly in the days leading up to her death. Lamb's last public message on social media, shared shortly before her passing, alluded to spiritual warfare, stating, "The battles we face are always won on our knees."

Legacy of Broadcast and Family

For nearly four decades, Joni Lamb and her first husband, Marcus, dedicated themselves to broadcasting "God's message of salvation around the world." Marcus Lamb, who co-founded the ministry with her, passed away in 2021 after more than thirty years of partnership. Daystar Television Network has assured its supporters that the ministry will continue its mission. Lamb had established a succession plan with the board, ensuring the continuation of broadcasting "the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every nation." Joni Lamb is survived by her second husband, Doug Weiss, who had joined her as a co-host on Daystar. She also leaves behind her three children—Jonathan, Rachel, and Rebecca—and their respective families.

Tributes from the Faith Community

Prominent figures within the faith community have paid homage to Lamb's enduring impact. Paula White-Cain, a fellow evangelist and friend, confirmed the news on social media, describing Lamb as "a General for the kingdom, a pioneer, a worldwide evangelist and MY FRIEND." White-Cain expressed her profound sense of loss, stating, "I will miss you @jonilamb.. and I know you are in the Presence of God.. fully perfected.." Her words reflect the deep respect and affection Lamb commanded within her circles. The ministry's announcement itself served as a testament to her role, referring to her passing as going "home to be with the Lord," a phrase common in Christian expressions of eternal life.

Looking Ahead for Daystar

The Daystar Television Network, which reaches a global audience, is committed to continuing its broadcast operations. The ministry's statement emphasized this continuity, promising to "keep broadcasting the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every nation, alongside you." This commitment is underpinned by a succession plan that Joni Lamb had meticulously developed with the Daystar board. The plan is designed to ensure that her life's work and the ministry's mission endure beyond her presence. As the organization navigates this transition, the focus remains on fulfilling the vision Lamb and her late husband established: spreading their message of faith worldwide.

The bottom line

• Joni Lamb, a co-founder and President of Daystar Television Network, died at 65.
• Her death was attributed to a serious health issue exacerbated by a recent back injury.
• Lamb co-founded the Christian broadcasting network with her first husband, Marcus, who died in 2021.
• She is survived by her husband Doug Weiss and three children.
• Daystar Television Network has stated its operations will continue as planned.
• Tributes highlight her role as a pioneer in Christian evangelism and broadcasting.