Charles Stanley Bio, Education, Age, Family, Wife, Children, Net Worth, Salary, Books

Charles Stanley Bio

Full Name: Charles Frazier Stanley
Date of Birth: September 25, 1932
Place of Birth: Dry Fork, Virginia, USA
Died: April 18, 2023 (Age 90)
Occupation: Pastor, Author, Broadcaster
Ministry: In Touch Ministries, First Baptist Church Atlanta

Charles Stanley was a revered American pastor, author, and teacher who founded In Touch Ministries and served as senior pastor at First Baptist Church Atlanta for over 50 years. Widely known for his clear, biblical teaching and international radio and television ministry, Stanley impacted generations with his unwavering message of faith, obedience, and trust in God.

Charles Stanley Early Life

Charles Stanley grew up in rural Virginia during the Great Depression. His father passed away when Charles was only nine months old, and he was raised by his mother, Rebecca Stanley, who instilled in him a deep reliance on God. His humble beginnings and early exposure to hardship shaped his lifelong message of perseverance and faith.

Charles Stanley Education

Charles Stanley earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Richmond in Virginia. He later received a Bachelor of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Texas. Continuing his academic journey, he earned a Master of Theology and a Doctor of Theology from Luther Rice Seminary in Georgia.

His theological education gave him a solid foundation for the doctrinal clarity and depth that marked his preaching throughout his life.

Charles Stanley Career

Charles Stanley’s ministry began in 1956, when he joined the staff at First Baptist Church of Atlanta. He became the senior pastor in 1971, and it was during his tenure that the church grew exponentially, expanding its reach both locally and globally. Stanley’s preaching style emphasizes the expository teaching of the Bible, focusing on practical applications for daily life.

In 1977, Stanley founded In Touch Ministries, a global outreach organization dedicated to spreading the Gospel through various media, including television, radio, and print. His televised sermon series, In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley, became widely recognized for its clear, Bible-based teaching and encouragement for believers to grow in their personal relationship with God.

Stanley’s emphasis on personal integrity and prayer is evident in his ministry and teaching, with a significant focus on applying biblical principles to everyday life. His messages have inspired generations to live out their faith practically, as well as to deepen their understanding of the Holy Spirit and God’s will.

Charles Stanley Major Career Achievements and Global Impact

Throughout his illustrious career, Charles Stanley has achieved numerous milestones, including:

In Touch Ministries: Stanley founded the ministry in 1977, which has since become a global Christian outreach through various media platforms. His program, In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley, reaches millions of viewers worldwide.
Global Evangelism: Stanley’s teachings have been broadcast in over 50 languages to countries all over the world, ensuring that his influence stretches far beyond the United States.
Books and Publications: As an author, Stanley has written numerous books that have become staples in Christian homes. His most famous book, “The Source of My Strength”, and others such as “The Purpose of Prayer” and “Living in the Power of the Holy Spirit”, have helped countless believers deepen their understanding of God’s Word and live out their faith.
Influential Preaching: Known for his clear, biblical preaching, Stanley has influenced a whole generation of pastors and church leaders. His expository style of teaching has made him a respected voice in Southern Baptist circles and beyond.
Leadership at First Baptist Church: As senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta, Stanley led the church through a significant period of growth, reaching thousands of members and establishing a strong Christian community in Georgia.

Charles Stanley Legacy and Spiritual Impact

Charles Stanley has left an indelible mark on Christian ministry, especially within the Southern Baptist denomination. His emphasis on biblical teaching, prayer, and spiritual maturity has shaped the lives of millions of believers.

His leadership at First Baptist Church of Atlanta and through In Touch Ministries has established a foundation that will continue to impact future generations.
Stanley’s teachings have helped countless individuals understand how to apply Scripture to their daily lives and deepen their personal relationship with God.

Despite facing challenges, including his divorce and criticisms at various points in his ministry, Stanley’s commitment to integrity and biblical truth remains central to his legacy. His work has impacted not only the church but also the broader Christian community through his teachings on personal holiness, faithfulness, and prayer.

Charles Stanley Age

Charles was born on September 25, 1932, and passed away on April 18, 2023, at the age of 90. Each year, he celebrated his birthday on September 25.

Charles Stanley Family

Stanley grew up in a close-knit Southern Baptist household. His mother, Rebecca, played a key role in his spiritual formation, teaching him to rely on God through prayer and study. He often credited her for his strong moral foundation.

Charles Stanley Wife

Charles married Anna J. Stanley in 1955. The couple separated in the 1990s and finalized their divorce in 2000, which drew public attention due to Stanley’s pastoral role. Despite their separation, Stanley remained committed to his ministry and never remarried. He often expressed personal grief over the situation but emphasized forgiveness and faithfulness throughout.

Charles Stanley Children

He had two children:

Andy Stanley – Andy is a nationally known pastor, author, and speaker. He founded North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia, and has become one of the most influential pastors in the U.S., though his approach differs significantly from his father’s. Despite public theological differences, Andy has spoken respectfully of his father and his legacy.
Becky Stanley – Becky leads a more private life but has occasionally spoken at women’s events and ministry gatherings. She has been involved in church and family initiatives over the years and supported her father’s ministry behind the scenes.

Charles Stanley Net Worth

Stanley had an estimated net worth of $1.5 million at the time of his passing. His wealth came primarily from book sales, royalties, and his long tenure in church leadership. He lived modestly and directed much of his income and energy toward spreading the gospel through media and print.

Charles Stanley Salary

While exact figures were not publicly disclosed, sources estimate that Charles Stanley earned between $150,000 and $300,000 annually during his most active years as a pastor and ministry leader. In Touch Ministries also supported him through book royalties and media-related income.

Charles Stanley Books

Charles Stanley authored more than 70 books, covering spiritual growth, prayer, emotional healing, and biblical living. Many of his titles became bestsellers and remain popular in Christian bookstores. Notable works include:

How to Listen to God
The Blessings of Brokenness
In Touch with God
Success God’s Way
Every Day in His Presence
Walking with God

His books continue to impact readers around the world with simple yet profound biblical wisdom.

Charles Stanley Fun Facts and Trivia

Photography Hobby: Stanley was an avid nature photographer. He often used his landscape photos in devotional content and even published a book featuring his photography.
Television Pioneer: He was one of the earliest pastors to embrace global media as a tool for evangelism. In Touch aired on networks like TBN, Daystar, and The Church Channel.
Legacy in Leadership: Stanley mentored hundreds of pastors and church leaders, both directly and through his conferences and resources.
Personal Motto: He often said, “Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him”—a phrase that defined his life and teachings.
Father of One of America’s Top Pastors: His son, Andy Stanley, leads a large church network but has taken a more modern and seeker-sensitive approach.
Posthumous Influence: Even after his death, In Touch Ministries continues to distribute his sermons and devotionals globally.