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

Key facts

• Joni Lamb, co-founder and president of Daystar Television Network, died on Thursday, May 7.
• She was 65 years old at the time of her death.
• Lamb had been privately battling serious health issues that were worsened by a back injury.
• She co-founded Daystar with her first husband, Marcus Lamb, in 1993.
• Marcus Lamb died in 2021 following complications from COVID-19.
• Joni Lamb is survived by her husband Doug Weiss, and three children: Jonathan, Rachel, and Rebecca.

A Pioneer in Global Televangelism Passes

Joni Lamb, the president and co-founder of the Daystar Television Network, has died at the age of 65. The ministry announced her passing, stating that Lamb had been engaged in a private struggle with significant health issues. These private battles were recently exacerbated by a back injury, leading to a medical situation that proved more severe than anticipated. Daystar shared that despite the diligent efforts of her medical team and the widespread prayers of supporters globally, Lamb's condition declined over her final days. The network conveyed profound grief, noting that Lamb was an inspiration to millions, particularly her family and those within Daystar, having modeled a life of boldness and righteousness. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Christian broadcasting network, which she helped shape into a global ministry. The organization has affirmed its commitment to continuing its mission of spreading the Gospel, operating under a succession plan that Lamb had previously put in place with the board of directors.

A Life of Faith and Ministry

Lamb co-founded Daystar Television Network in 1993 alongside her first husband, Marcus Lamb. Together, they dedicated decades to expanding the Christian television network, focusing on the propagation of the Gospel worldwide. The couple co-hosted programs on the network, a collaboration that significantly contributed to their joint popularity. Marcus Lamb passed away in 2021, succumbing to complications arising from COVID-19. His death left a void, but Joni Lamb continued to lead Daystar, drawing strength from her faith and the network's mission. The organization's statement expressed gratitude for the enduring legacy Lamb has bequeathed. Christian pastor and televangelist Paula White-Cain paid a heartfelt tribute, describing Lamb as "a General for the kingdom, a pioneer, a worldwide evangelist and MY FRIEND." White-Cain's social media post concluded with the sentiment, "You finished your course."

Family and Personal Life

The news of Joni Lamb's death has also drawn significant attention to her family. She was first married to Marcus Lamb, with whom she shared a 39-year union from 1982 until his death in 2021. From this marriage, they had three children: Jonathan, Rachel, and Rebecca. Jonathan is recognized as her only son and serves as a worship leader. Rachel, the eldest daughter, has been involved in television production. Rebecca, the youngest daughter, has actively participated in ministry work. Following Marcus Lamb's passing, Joni Lamb later remarried Dr. Doug Weiss, a psychologist and host known for his work addressing sexual addiction. Weiss also co-hosted programs on Daystar. Lamb had previously shared her deep affection for Weiss on social media, calling him "a rock" and praising his contagious faith.

Health Complications and Final Days

Daystar's confirmation of Lamb's death indicated that she had been experiencing "serious health matters" that she chose to keep private. These pre-existing conditions were reportedly compounded by a recent back injury. The back injury, according to the network's statement, escalated the challenges and led to a medical situation far more serious than anyone had foreseen. Despite the unwavering dedication of her medical team and the fervent prayers from a global community of supporters, her health continued to deteriorate in the days leading up to her passing. The network has requested prayers and privacy for the family during this period of mourning. The Lamb family has expressed gratitude for the support and understanding of their community.

The bottom line

• Joni Lamb, a key figure in Christian broadcasting, died at 65 after a period of declining health.
• Her death followed a private health struggle that was intensified by a recent back injury.
• Lamb was instrumental in building Daystar Television Network into a global ministry alongside her first husband, Marcus Lamb.
• Marcus Lamb, her co-founder and husband, died in 2021 from COVID-19 complications.
• She is survived by her second husband, Doug Weiss, and their three children, Jonathan, Rachel, and Rebecca.
• Daystar Television Network plans to continue its mission based on a succession strategy established by Lamb.