T.D. Jakes Bio, Education, Age, Family, Wife, Children, Net Worth, Salary, Books
T.D.Jakes Biography
Full Name: Thomas Dexter Jakes (T.D.Jakes)
Born: June 9, 1957
Birthplace: South Charleston, West Virginia, USA
Occupation: Pastor, Author, Filmmaker, Speaker
Organization: The Potter’s House, Dallas, Texas
T.D. Jakes is a prominent American pastor, author, and filmmaker, best known for founding The Potter’s House, a megachurch in Dallas, Texas. His ministry extends beyond the pulpit through his books, films, and media projects, reaching millions around the world.
T.D.Jakes Early Life
T.D. Jakes grew up in a working-class family in South Charleston, West Virginia. The youngest of three children, Jakes was raised by his mother, Odith, who worked as a teacher, and his father, Ernest, who ran a janitorial business. Jakes showed an early interest in religion, preaching at the age of 15. Despite challenges like financial struggles, Jakes was determined to pursue ministry.
T.D.Jakes Education
Jakes attended Savannah State College in Georgia, where he studied before focusing on his ministry work. Though he did not pursue formal theological education, T.D. Jakes‘ teachings reflect a deep personal understanding of Scripture and theology. He has learned through experience, personal study, and interactions with various theological perspectives.
T.D.Jakes Career
T.D. Jakes began his ministry in 1980 in West Virginia with a small congregation. In 1996, he moved to Dallas, Texas, and established The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch. The church grew rapidly, and by today, it serves over 30,000 members. Jakes’ influence has expanded beyond the church through his books, media appearances, and faith-based films. He has produced several notable films and TV programs under TDJ Enterprises.
T.D.Jakes Age
T.D. Jakes was born on June 9, 1957, which means he celebrates his birthday every year on June 9. As of 2025, he is 67 years old.
T.D.Jakes Family
Jakes comes from a close-knit family that has always been supportive of his ministry. Raised in a faith-centered household, his family continues to play an important role in his personal and professional life.
T.D.Jakes Wife
T.D. Jakes has been married to Serita Jakes since 1981. Serita is actively involved in their ministry work, particularly in women’s ministry. She speaks at conferences and serves alongside her husband in leadership roles at The Potter’s House.
T.D.Jakes Children
T.D. Jakes and Serita have five children:
- Jamal Jakes – Active in ministry and leadership.
- Cora Jakes Coleman – Author and speaker focused on women’s empowerment.
- Thomas Jakes Jr. – Involved in ministry and leadership.
- Sarah Jakes Roberts – A prominent author and speaker, Sarah co-pastors The Potter’s House at Denver with her husband, Toure Roberts.
- Jaden Jakes – The youngest of the children, less publicly involved in the ministry.
T.D.Jakes Net Worth
T.D. Jakes’ net worth is estimated at $20 million. His wealth comes from his extensive church network, speaking engagements, books, and media ventures. Jakes has produced films, hosted conferences, and written several bestselling books that have contributed significantly to his financial success.
T.D.Jakes Salary
T.D. Jakes does not publicly disclose his exact salary, but as the founder and senior pastor of one of the largest megachurches in the U.S., he likely earns a significant income from the church and related ventures. In 2019, reports suggested that Jakes’ salary from The Potter’s House was around $1.5 million per year. However, his income also includes earnings from his media company, book royalties, film projects, and speaking engagements, which collectively contribute to his overall financial success.
T.D.Jakes Books
Thomas Dexter Jakes (T.D. Jakes) has authored over 40 books, with several becoming bestsellers. His most notable books include:
- The Purpose Awakening – Discusses discovering one’s true purpose and calling.ping the Broom” and “Miracles from Heaven.”
- Woman, Thou Art Loosed! – A book focused on healing and overcoming life’s difficulties.
- Soar! – Encourages readers to pursue their destiny and reach their full potential.
- Instinct – Explores the power of intuition and personal instincts.
- Let It Go: Forgive So You Can Be Forgiven – A book about the power of forgiveness.
T.D.Jakes Fun Facts & Trivia
- He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the NAACP in 2023.
- Time Magazine once referred to him as “America’s Best Preacher.”
- He has served as a spiritual adviser to multiple U.S. presidents.
- His daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, is now one of the most influential young pastors in the U.S.
- He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Friends International Christian University.