At 68, Pastor T. D. Jakes’s Wife Finally Confirms What We Thought All Along

Serita Jakes’s life is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power to turn pain into purpose. Best known as the wife of Bishop T. D. Jakes, the renowned leader of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Serita has quietly built a legacy of her own—one shaped by overcoming trauma, championing women, and inspiring hope in millions.

Born on August 9, 1955, in Beckley, West Virginia, Serita’s early years were marked by hardship. Growing up in a coal-mining community, she lost her mother to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder, and later endured the tragic murder of her brother.

These losses left deep scars, leading her through a period of grief and into an abusive relationship as a teenager. Bullying and a struggle to fit in added to her burdens. In college, while majoring in drama, she experimented with substances in an attempt to belong.

A turning point came when Serita decided to embrace her faith fully and was baptized. This spiritual renewal gave her the strength to overcome her past and set her on a path of service. She met T. D. Jakes when he visited her home church in the early 1980s.

The two fell in love and married in 1982. Just six months into their marriage, tragedy struck again—a devastating car accident left Serita with severe foot injuries. Doctors doubted she would ever walk again, but Serita defied the odds, eventually regaining her strength and mobility.

Throughout her adult life, Serita has been a pillar at The Potter’s House, serving as executive director of Women’s and Children’s Affairs and leading programs that empower women and mentor young girls.

Her literary work, including the acclaimed book “The Princess Within,” and her involvement in stage and film production, such as co-producing “Jumping the Broom,” reflect her passion for storytelling and healing. Through these platforms, she spreads messages of inner strength, self-worth, and spiritual resilience.

Serita’s journey has not been without continued challenges. She underwent surgery in 2012 to repair a herniated disc, but once again emerged stronger, continuing her ministry and outreach work.

Beyond the church, Serita runs the SJ Home Collection, a line of candles and accessories, and remains deeply involved in humanitarian projects, community service, and mentoring initiatives.

As a mother of five and grandmother to several, Serita’s legacy is not only in her family but in the countless lives she has touched through her compassion, leadership, and unwavering faith.

Her story illustrates that it is possible to rise above adversity and use one’s trials as a foundation for service and hope.

Today, Serita Jakes stands as a beacon of strength and grace—proof that even the deepest wounds can become sources of healing for others. Her life encourages us all to persevere, transform pain into purpose, and leave a legacy of love, resilience, and service.