Hey there, friends. Let me tell you about a truly remarkable man whose life touched millions around the globe. The Reverend Billy Graham, a spiritual giant who advised U.S. presidents, became a close confidant to Queen Elizabeth, and reached countless souls through his sermons, passed away on February 21, 2018. He was 99 years old. Billy had been battling serious health issues, including Parkinson’s disease, and Todd Shearer of DeMoss Associates confirmed to Fox News that he passed away from natural causes. The world lost a legendary figure that day, but his legacy lives on.
Now, let’s rewind to the beginning of this incredible journey. Billy Graham was born on November 7, 1918, near Charlotte, North Carolina. He was the eldest of four children in the Graham family. In 1939, he became an ordained Southern Baptist clergyman, and four years later, he graduated from Wheaton College. It was there that he met Ruth McCue Bell, the daughter of a medical missionary. They fell in love, got married in August 1943, and spent 43 beautiful years together. Together, they had five children, 19 grandchildren, and countless great-grandchildren. Ruth, a remarkable woman in her own right, passed away in June 2007.
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Billy Graham: Seven Decades of Inspiring Millions
For seven decades, Billy Graham’s crusades filled stadiums and arenas, captivating audiences with his message of hope and faith. He traveled the world, sharing the gospel with millions of people. In 2005, after what he called his “Final Crusade,” a three-day event in New York City, Billy stepped away from the pulpit. At that time, he shared something truly profound: “Deep inside, we all need something more. And that something can only be fulfilled by Jesus. Even at my age, every time I touch the podium, I feel a new strength and a new power. It’s an incredible feeling to preach the gospel.”
More Than Just Sermons
Billy Graham wasn’t just about crusades. He was a prolific author, penning several books that inspired readers worldwide. He also had a weekly radio program, published his own magazine, and produced content for Christian TV networks. His influence was undeniable, and he consistently appeared on Gallup’s list of the most admired men and women. In fact, he made the list a record-breaking 60 times since 1955, a testament to his lasting impact on society.
From the Pulpit to the Screen
Even in the months leading up to his passing, Billy Graham’s legacy found its way into popular culture. On Netflix’s hit series The Crown, actor Paul Sparks portrayed Billy in the second season’s sixth episode, titled “Vergangenheit.” In the show, Queen Elizabeth is deeply moved while watching one of Billy’s sermons on TV alongside the Queen Mother. Later, she invites him to deliver a sermon at Windsor Chapel and shares a private lunch with him. While some aspects of The Crown are dramatized, the real-life friendship between Billy and Queen Elizabeth was genuine. They cherished each other’s company, whether he visited her in the UK or she visited him in the U.S.
This story originally appeared on our sister site, Woman’s World.
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