Tammy Faye Bakker

Date of Birth: March 7, 1942

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: July 20, 2007

Biography

Tammy Faye Bakker, born Tamara Faye LaValley, was an influential American television evangelist, singer, author, and television personality. She was born on March 7, 1942, in International Falls, Minnesota. Tammy Faye rose to fame alongside her first husband, Jim Bakker, as co-hosts of the popular Christian television program “The PTL Club” (Praise The Lord Club), which they started in 1974. The show became a significant force in religious broadcasting, reaching millions of viewers worldwide. Tammy Faye was known for her distinctive style, characterized by heavy makeup and an upbeat, charismatic personality. Despite her glamorous appearance, she was deeply committed to her faith and was known for her compassionate outreach, particularly towards marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ+ community and people with AIDS during a time when they faced significant stigma. The PTL ministry faced a major scandal in the late 1980s when Jim Bakker was accused of financial fraud and sexual misconduct. Tammy Faye stood by him during the trial, which resulted in Jim Bakker’s imprisonment. The scandal led to the couple’s public and financial downfall, and they divorced in 1992. Tammy Faye later married Roe Messner, a construction contractor who had been involved with the PTL ministry. She continued her career in entertainment and ministry, appearing on various television shows and releasing several books and music albums. Despite numerous health challenges, including a long battle with colon cancer, Tammy Faye remained a beloved figure to many for her resilience and unwavering faith.

5 Interesting Facts about Tammy Faye Bakker

1. Tammy Faye was one of the first evangelical figures to publicly address the AIDS crisis, showing compassion and support for those affected.

2. She was an accomplished singer, releasing over 30 albums of gospel music throughout her career.

3. Tammy Faye’s life and career were the subject of the 2000 documentary “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” which brought renewed interest in her story.

4. She was known for her dramatic makeup, which became her signature look, often featuring heavy mascara and bright eyeshadow.

5. Despite her televangelist roots, Tammy Faye appeared on secular television shows like “The Surreal Life,” showcasing her down-to-earth and humorous side.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Tammy Faye Bakker

1. “I always say, you can’t go forward if you’re looking backward. You have to look at the future, and that’s what I’ve always done.”

2. “God has always been faithful to me. I have a lot to be thankful for.”

3. “Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do something. Make your own victories. Make your own mistakes.”

4. “I refuse to label people. We are all just people made out of the same old dirt, and God didn’t make any junk.”

5. “I won’t compromise my faith, but I also won’t judge others for their choices. Love is what changes lives.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of her career with the PTL Club, Tammy Faye Bakker’s net worth, combined with her husband’s, was estimated to be in the tens of millions. However, due to legal issues and financial mismanagement, she faced significant financial difficulties later in life.

Children

Tammy Faye Bakker had two children with Jim Bakker: 1. Tammy Sue Bakker, born in 1970, who is a singer and has followed in her parents’ footsteps in ministry. 2. Jamie Charles Bakker, born in 1975, who is an author and pastor, known for founding the Revolution Church, which focuses on inclusivity and social justice.