Charles Stanley, the founder and president of In Touch Ministries, and the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta for 49 years, passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at his home. He was 90 years old. His death came as a shock to many who admired and followed his teachings, as he did not reveal any signs of illness or suffering. So, what was the cause of Charles Stanley’s death? How did he live his life and what legacy did he leave behind? In this article, we will explore these questions and pay tribute to the man who touched millions of lives with his preaching and writing.
Contents
The Official Statement from In Touch Ministries
The official statement from In Touch Ministries announced the death of Charles Stanley in a heartfelt message, 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.” [according to MSN]
The statement also informed that the public could visit the church and pay their respects to the deceased as he reposed at the church on April 29, 2023, Saturday, between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm. However, the memorial service for Dr Stanley would be a private affair in which close family and friends would be allowed.
The Cause of Charles Stanley’s Death Remains Unknown
While the statement confirmed that Charles Stanley passed away on Tuesday morning, it did not reveal the cause of his death. It is possible that he died of natural causes, as he was already in his nineties and had retired from his pastoral duties in 2020. However, there is no official confirmation or medical report on the exact cause of his death. [according to MSN]
Some speculate that he might have contracted COVID-19, the deadly virus that has claimed millions of lives worldwide. However, there is no evidence to support this claim, and it is unlikely that he would have kept his diagnosis a secret from his followers and family. [according to Wikipedia]
The Life and Legacy of Charles Stanley
Charles Stanley was born on September 25, 1932, in Dry Fork, Virginia. His father, also named Charles, died nine months later, and his mother, Rebecca, moved frequently throughout his childhood. At the age of 12, he became a born-again Christian, and at age 14 he began his life’s work in Christian ministry. [according to Wikipedia]
He graduated from the University of Richmond with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1956, and then studied at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, earning a Master of Divinity. He also earned a Master of Theology and a Doctorate of Theology degree from Luther Rice Seminary. [according to Wikipedia]
He joined the staff of First Baptist Church of Atlanta in 1969 and became senior pastor in 1971. He served in this role for 49 years, until he took on emeritus status in 2020. He founded In Touch Ministries in 1977, with the mission to lead people worldwide into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and to strengthen the local church. He also served two one-year terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention, from 1984 to 1986. [according to Wikipedia]
He wrote over 50 books and was recognized internationally for his hard work and dedication. He preached to people via radio and television, and his sermons were translated in 50 languages. He also used tools like magazines and digital media to spread the Gospel as quickly as possible. [according to Wikipedia]
He was married to Anna Johnson Stanley from 1955 to 2000, and they had two children, Becky and Andy, who are also pastors. He had six grandchildren. His ex-wife Anna passed away in 2014. [according to MSN]
Charles Stanley was a man of faith, obedience, and love. He inspired and influenced countless people with his wisdom and grace. He was a faithful servant of God and a beloved pastor of his flock. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and followers. May he rest in peace and joy in the presence of his Lord and Savior.
