Public Memorial Service for Joni Lamb Sparks Controversy

The announcement of Joni Lamb's memorial service at Gateway Church has sparked significant debate online. While some criticize the choice due to the church's past associations with former pastor Robert Morris, others defend it for its capacity to host large crowds. Lamb, co-founder of Daystar Television Network, passed away at 65, and her funeral arrangements have drawn both support and scrutiny. The church's current leadership and ongoing legal issues with Morris add further complexity to the situation. This article explores the reactions and implications surrounding the memorial service.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 13, 2026, 07:29 IST

Memorial Service Announcement

The funeral arrangements for Joni Lamb have ignited discussions online after it was revealed that a public memorial service is set to take place at Gateway Church. Lamb, who was a co-founder and the president of Daystar Television Network, passed away at the age of 65. While the exact cause of her death has not been disclosed, it was previously mentioned that she had suffered from a back injury and faced various health issues.

In a social media update regarding the funeral, Daystar expressed gratitude for the support received following her passing. The organization stated, "We appreciate the outpouring of love, prayers, and memories shared with us since Joni's departure. Joni cherished sharing her life with you, and as we come together to honor her legacy, your presence is invaluable." The memorial service is scheduled for May 18 at Gateway Church in Southlake.

This decision has faced backlash from some commentators due to the church's recent ties with former pastor Robert Morris. Joshua Simone from the Torn Curtain ministry raised concerns on social media, questioning the choice of venue for Lamb's memorial. He referenced allegations against Morris, noting that the church's attendance had dwindled following accusations of sexual assault involving a minor. Morris has recently completed a six-month sentence related to these charges.

Simone expressed his discontent, asking, "Why was Gateway Church chosen for this service? The charismatic church is in dire need of a righteous reformation." Conversely, some defended the choice, suggesting that Gateway Church was selected for its ability to accommodate large gatherings. Others pointed out that the church is now under different leadership.

Additionally, Gateway Church has been embroiled in legal disputes with Morris concerning a substantial retirement package. Reports indicate that this matter has transitioned to arbitration, with an attorney for Morris's family stating, "The parties have agreed on a suitable arbitration forum to resolve their issues, and the state court proceedings have been dismissed."