Frances Swaggart Is Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart's Wife Of Over Seven Decades (2024)

France Swaggart exudes confidence and grace in everything she does. She is a successful television host, a proud mother, and a dedicated partner to her longtime husband.

Frances Swaggart has been deeply committed to her faith community for many years. Beyond her work in the ministry, she excels in different areas of life, including her roles as a spouse and family matriarch.

Married to televangelist Jimmy Swaggart for over seven decades, Frances has endured challenges in their union. Despite her husband's imperfections, she continues to hold him in high regard.

Jimmy Swaggart speaks at convention of religions broadcasters in 1986. | Source: Getty Images

Frances Was Only A Teen When She Married Her Husband

Frances first met her future husband, Jimmy, in Wisner, Louisiana, around 1950. She joined the choir at the church that Jimmy's dad had built there.

When Jimmy's sister, Jeanette, told him about Frances, he was immediately captivated upon seeing her in the choir. For Jimmy, Frances was "the one," believing their connection was because of divine intervention.

Frances eventually fell for Jimmy, and despite minimal courtship, they spent time together in church. They tied the knot in October 1952, even if it was against the wishes of young Frances' parents. She was only 15, while Jimmy was 17.

Despite their successful marriage, Frances' husband expressed in a 1986 interview that he does not recommend marrying at such a young age, emphasizing that couples who marry young are still essentially kids.

Reflecting on their own relationship, Jimmy said that his wife was "more mature" than he was, admitting that he may be only 17 at that time, but he had a mind similar to that of a two-year-old.

Frances Displays Strength In Their Marriage & The Ministry

Frances is a well-known preacher's wife in the faith community, echoing the teamwork among notable figures like Bishop T.D. Jakes and his wife Serita, as well as gospel singers David and Tamela Mann.

Frances played a crucial role in Jimmy's life, supporting him at important events and aligning with his objections within his ministry. Taking charge of day-to-day operations, she managed hiring, firing, mail, and troubleshooting.

Frances did not feel neglected in their relationship, as she respected Jimmy's dedication to prayer and study. Beyond her administrative role, she excelled as a cook, loving grandmother, and dedicated jogger.

Although he had wronged her, she remained a supportive partner. In 1988, her husband admitted publicly his own sins, eventually stepping down from his pulpit for an "indeterminate period of time" after reports surfaced of him allegedly being pictured with a prostitute in a hotel room.

Despite her husband's indefinite departure, Frances serves the ministry as chief financial officer, overseeing all aspects of the group's finances. Additionally, she hosts the show "Frances and Friends" on SonLife Broadcasting Network (SBN), founded by her husband's organization.

During those challenging moments, Jimmy's admiration for his wife has deepened. He mentioned on the "Frances & Friends" website that he observed Frances remaining unwavering in her faith. He said:

On their 71st wedding anniversary in October 2023, Frances expressed her deep appreciation for her husband, recognizing him as the man the Lord placed in her life, leading not only their family but also an entire ministry.

Frances's Son Follows In Jimmy's Path To Preaching

Donny Swaggart, born in 1954, is the only son of Frances and her husband. Frances once described him as a "blessing" in many ways, actively assisting with their mission and addressing challenges within their extensive ministry.

Now serving as a pastor and evangelist, Donny proudly identifies as a "Pentecostal to the core" and a 5th "generation preacher" in his Instagram bio. He is also a co-host on SNB.

In addition to his ministerial roles, Frances' only son is now a devoted husband to Debbie, and together, they are parents to three children: sons Gabriel and Mathew and daughter Jennifer.

The Swaggart clan has expanded as Donny and Debbie's kids now have families of their own, resulting in them becoming proud grandparents of eight, adding another layer of happiness to their family dynamic.