Prominent Atlanta church leader Dr. Charles Stanley dies at 90

ATLANTA — Prominent Atlanta church leader Dr. Charles Stanley has died at 90.

Stanley was the founder of In Touch Ministries and served as senior pastor of First Baptist in Atlanta for nearly 50 years. He was also widely known for his weekly television show, “In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley,” which aired for more than 40 years and was broadcast to millions of viewers around the world.

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Stanley joined the staff of First Baptist Church of Atlanta in 1969 and became the senior pastor in 1971. He became pastor emeritus in 2020. Stanley’s son, Andy Stanley, is the pastor of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta.

Channel 2′s Sophia Choi was outside of the church Tuesday, where Stanley was known for his personable sermons. Flags were lowered to half-staff.

Choi talked to church member Lisa Ryan, who said she could never forget his Sunday greetings.

“His smile and his big embrace...” Ryan said. “You know, when you saw him in the hallway, he knew you by name and he was always there to greet you and love on you like a true pastor. So not only a teacher, but a true pastor’s heart.”

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Church member Steve Rice said Stanley felt like a family member.

“Almost like my grandfather,” Rice said. “That even though he was this magnanimous preacher that was seen around the world, I’d also imagine that I could just sit with him at a cafe.”

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The church released a statement on Stanley’s death, saying:

“Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Charles Stanley. In this time of loss, we are comforted in knowing that his faith has now become sight. The glories of heaven are now his, a reality he taught us and millions of others around the world throughout his years of faithful preaching.”

Stanley is survived by his son Andy and daughter Becky. The memorial will be private, but the public is invited to see Stanley lie in repose at the church next Saturday from 10 - 4. The family is requesting donations to In Touch ministries in lieu of flowers.

Stanley spoke to Channel 2′s Monica Pearson in 2012 about his ministry that has inspired millions of people over the decades.

Monica's Closeups: Dr. Charles Stanley Monica's Closeups: Dr. Charles Stanley

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