Famed evangelical preacher the Rev. Billy Graham passed away on Wednesday, several months shy of his 100th birthday.
Graham spent decades in the public eye, preaching to millions and regularly contributing widely-syndicated advice columns. Here are just a few of the many statements of condolence and remembrance, ranging from faith leaders to celebrities and family.
Franklin Graham
The son of the famed preacher and an outspoken public figure in his own right, the Rev. Franklin Graham posted a statement to his official Facebook page.
“This morning, at the age of 99, he departed this world into eternal life in Heaven, prepared by the Lord Jesus Christ—the Savior of the world—whom he proclaimed for nearly 80 years,” stated Graham.
“He will be missed by our family, his colleagues, faithful ministry partners, and, yes, many around the world. But what joy he has to be welcomed by God the Father, and be reunited with my mother in the presence of Jesus who speaks peace to eternal souls.”
Samuel Rodriguez
The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, expressed his condolences on Twitter.
“Today, the most influential evangelist in modern history @BillyGraham stepped into the corridors of eternity,” posted Rodriguez.
“He preached the gospel, lived with integrity and changed the world. Thank you for the example. My condolences to the family.”
Senator James Lankford
United States Senator james Lankford of Oklahoma posted on his official Twitter account a statement of condolence in which he called Graham “was one of the greatest spiritual and moral leaders in America’s history.
“His ministry of love, reconciliation, hope, and salvation was world-changing. I thank God for his life and legacy. He was, and will always be, a role model of integrity and grace,” said Sen. Lankford.
Joel Osteen
Best-selling author and Lakewood Church Lead Pastor Joel Osteen took to social media to remember the famed evangelist.
“Billy Graham has always been and will always be a hero in our home,” tweeted Osteen, including a photo of himself with Graham.
“Next to my own father, Reverend Graham was the most humble and gracious man I ever knew. I am honored to call him a friend and a mentor. Victoria and I will miss him dearly.”
Kathie Lee Gifford
American television host, singer, author, comedian, and actress Kathie Lee Gifford posted her condolences on Twitter.
“Rejoicing with my precious friend, Billy Graham. Without a doubt, the finest man I ever knew,” she stated. “So grateful that I am among the millions that he lead to faith in Jesus and the promise of eternal life.”
Mike Pence
Vice President Mike Pence released a pair of statements on Twitter in which he and his wife expressed sadness over the death of Billy Graham.
“Karen and I were saddened to learn of the passing of one of the greatest Americans of the century, Reverend Billy Graham. We send our deepest condolences to the Graham family,” tweeted Pence.
“Billy Graham’s ministry for the gospel of Jesus Christ and his matchless voice changed the lives of millions. We mourn his passing but I know with absolute certainty that today he heard those words, ‘well done good and faithful servant.’ Thank you Billy Graham. God bless you.”
Jimmy Carter
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, himself a noted evangelical with Southern Baptist roots, released a statement noting that Graham “shaped the spiritual lives of tens of millions of people worldwide.”
“Broad-minded, forgiving, and humble in his treatment of others, he exemplified the life of Jesus Christ by constantly reaching out for opportunities to serve,” stated Carter, as quoted by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“He had an enormous influence on my own spiritual life, and I was pleased to count Reverend Graham among my advisors and friends.”
