Dr. Marilyn Hickey Tribute by Long-time Friend Benny Hinn

Powerful Witness, Anointed Teacher, Trail Blazer Honored

The Body of Christ around the world pauses today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Marilyn Hickey (July 1, 1931-April 25, 2026)—my dear friend and an anointed leader of unwavering faith, remarkable vision, and global influence whose ministry helped shape generations.

Marilyn touched people in so many ways during her lifetime, including mine in such a profound way. And what a life she lived!

She received Jesus Christ as her Savior and Lord when she was a teenager, then met and married Pastor Wallace Hickey in 1954.

For over a half-century, Marilyn followed a divine calling to take the Word of God to the nations. Through her tireless devotion, millions encountered the saving power of Jesus Christ and the healing touch of the Holy Spirit. Beginning in 1973, her television ministry reached into homes around the world, and from 1996, she co-hosted Today with Marilyn and Sarah. I am so proud that her daughter continues to carry that mantle, reaching across the nations with biblical truth, encouragement, and hope.

Marilyn often came to minister at Orlando Christian Center, bringing some of the best Bible teachings I’ve ever heard. Every time I was with her, I so appreciated that she was a great woman of integrity, righteousness, and godliness. We stayed close friends through the years, even as God used her to minister to millions.

Her calling was not confined by borders, cultures, or barriers. Marilyn stepped boldly into places few dared to go, including extensive ministry throughout Islamic nations. Her historic gathering in Karachi, Pakistan—where more than one million people assembled—stands as a powerful testament to her courage and the hunger for God’s presence among the nations.

A pioneer and trail blazer in every sense, Marilyn also broke new ground in leadership. She served with distinction alongside influential global ministers, including David Yonggi Cho, founder of Yoido Full Gospel Church, widely recognized at the time as the world’s largest church, becoming the first woman to hold a position on his board—an achievement that reflected both her character and her calling.

As an author of more than 175 books and teachings, she leaves behind a treasury of wisdom that will continue to instruct, uplift, and inspire believers for years to come. Her life’s work was marked not only by spiritual depth, but by a genuine love for people and a relentless passion to see lives transformed.

Beyond the platform, Marilyn was a devoted wife to Wallace, a loving mother to Sarah and Michael and their spouses, and a cherished grandmother—roles she embraced with the same grace and faith that defined her ministry.

Her contributions have been recognized worldwide, including honors from Oral Roberts University and international leaders, yet her greatest reward was always found in lives changed for eternity who are now welcoming her to her heavenly home.

And today, as I join believers around the globe mourning her passing, we also celebrate a life fully poured out in service to the Lord. Marilyn Hickey’s legacy is not only remembered—it lives on in every soul touched, every life restored, and every nation reached with the Gospel.

Her precious, distinctive voice now is heard rejoicing in heaven, but its anointed echo will resound for generations here on earth!