Dr. Charles Stanley was a renowned pastor, preacher, and founder of In Touch Ministries. He served as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta for 51 years, until he retired in 2020. He was also a prolific author of over 50 books and a influential figure in the evangelical movement. He passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at his home, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service.
The Official Statement
The official statement from In Touch Ministries announced the death of Dr. Stanley, saying:
In Touch Family, this morning, God called our beloved pastor, Dr. Charles Stanley, home to heaven. Dr. Stanley lived a life of obedience and is now receiving the joy of his soul-seeing his Savior face-to-face. Please join us in praying for the Stanley family.
The statement did not reveal the exact cause of death, but it implied that he died peacefully and naturally. There were no reports of Dr. Stanley suffering from any illness before his death.
The Public Reaction
The news of Dr. Stanley’s death shocked and saddened many people who knew him personally or followed his ministry. Many expressed their condolences and tributes on social media, praising his wisdom, humility, and love for God. Some of the prominent figures who mourned his passing were:
- Franklin Graham, son of Billy Graham and president of Samaritan’s Purse, who wrote:
Dr. Charles Stanley was a great man of God who faithfully preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ for decades. He was a personal friend and a mentor to me, and I will miss him greatly. My prayers are with his family and his church.
- Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Church Dallas, who wrote:
Dr. Charles Stanley was one of the greatest Bible teachers of our generation. His ministry impacted millions of lives around the world. He was a kind and gracious friend to me and to our church. We thank God for his life and legacy.
- David Jeremiah, pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church and founder of Turning Point Ministries, who wrote:
Dr. Charles Stanley was a giant of the faith and a faithful servant of the Lord. He was a mentor and a friend to me, and I learned so much from his example and his teachings. He finished his race well and is now in the presence of his Savior. We will miss him dearly.
The Memorial Service
The memorial service for Dr. Stanley was held on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at First Baptist Church Atlanta. It was a private affair, attended only by close family and friends. The service was led by his son, Andy Stanley, who is also a pastor and the founder of North Point Ministries. Andy delivered a heartfelt eulogy, honoring his father’s life and ministry. He said:
My dad was a man of God, a man of integrity, and a man of love. He loved God with all his heart, and he loved people with all his soul. He dedicated his life to sharing the gospel and helping others grow in their faith. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and friend. He was my hero and my inspiration. I am so grateful for the time we had together, and I look forward to seeing him again in heaven.
The service also featured music, prayers, and testimonies from other family members and ministry partners. It was broadcasted live on In Touch Ministries’ website and social media platforms, allowing millions of people to join in the celebration of Dr. Stanley’s life.
The Legacy
Dr. Charles Stanley left behind a legacy of faith and service that will continue to inspire and bless generations to come. His ministry, In Touch Ministries, reaches millions of people around the world through radio, television, podcasts, books, and online resources. His church, First Baptist Church Atlanta, continues to be a vibrant and growing community of believers. His family, friends, and followers continue to honor his memory and follow his example. His message, based on the Word of God and the grace of Jesus Christ, continues to transform lives and hearts.
Dr. Charles Stanley may be gone from this earth, but his spirit lives on in heaven and in the hearts of those who loved him. He was a faithful servant of God, who finished his course and kept the faith. He is now receiving his crown of righteousness from his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is now experiencing the joy of his soul-seeing his Savior face-to-face. He is now home.
