Introduction
Moments Before His Passing, Jimmy Swaggart’s Final Days Reflect Life of Faith and Controversy
Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, one of the most recognizable figures in American Pentecostalism, passed away on July 1, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by family and supporters of his ministry. His death marked the end of a ministry that spanned more than six decades, leaving behind a complex legacy of evangelism, music, scandal, and resilience.
In the days leading up to his passing, Swaggart had been hospitalized after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His son, Donnie Swaggart — himself an evangelist and leader within Jimmy Swaggart Ministries — provided updates to followers as his father remained in critical condition. Donnie publicly acknowledged the gravity of Swaggart’s health struggles, urging prayer from congregations and sharing emotional moments within the family.
Although there is no widely published record of specific final words spoken by Jimmy Swaggart in the hours before his death, family tributes and ministry statements emphasized his lifelong commitment to spreading the gospel. In messages shared after his passing, Donnie highlighted both his father’s devotion to ministry and the profound impact he had on countless lives through preaching, music, and television outreach. Many supporters saw his final days as a continuation of his dedication to faith, surrounded by loved ones and anchored in prayerful reflection.
Swaggart’s career began in the mid-20th century, growing into national prominence through radio and television broadcasts that reached millions of households. He founded the Family Worship Center and the SonLife Broadcasting Network, platforms that brought his fiery preaching style and gospel music to audiences around the world. Even in later years, his ministry continued through online streams and church services, often featuring Swaggart alongside his son.
However, Swaggart’s life was not without controversy. He endured highly publicized scandals in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when encounters with prostitutes led to his defrocking by the Assemblies of God and a sharp decline in his national influence. These episodes were followed by televised confessions and periods of reduced public visibility, yet Swaggart maintained a dedicated following and continued preaching well into his 80s.
Reactions to Swaggart’s passing were mixed, reflecting the complexity of his legacy. Many longtime supporters praised his unwavering faith and musical contributions to gospel culture, while critics pointed to the scandals as defining aspects of his public life. Regardless of perspective, his death prompted widespread reflection on forgiveness, human frailty, and the enduring power of religious conviction in American spirituality.