Liberty University mourns the loss of Beverly LaHaye 

Liberty University mourns the loss of evangelical luminary and leader Beverly LaHaye, 94, founder of Concerned Women for America (CWA), who died Sunday.

She was the wife of the late pastor and author Dr. Tim LaHaye, who co-wrote the “Left Behind” series. Both were noted authors, counselors, and television commentators, as well as longtime supporters of Liberty University and former members of its Board of Trustees.

They are the namesake for two major campus facilities for which they generously provided funds: the LaHaye Ice Center and the LaHaye Recreation & Fitness Center.

Mrs. LaHaye founded CWA in 1979 as a response to the feminist movement that was attempting to coopt the voice of American women. A stalwart evangelical conservative, she grew CWA into one of the largest public policy women’s organizations in America opposing radical feminism, championing the family, and tirelessly advocating for the life of the unborn.

President Ronald Reagan considered her “one of the powerhouses” of the conservative movement and credited her with “changing the face of American politics.”

“Never compromise your faith in Jesus Christ,” LaHaye told a gathering in Washington, D.C., for CFA’s 40th anniversary celebration on Sept. 12, 2019.

Liberty leaders issued statements honoring Beverly LaHaye’s commitment to spreading the Gospel.

“Liberty University will forever be grateful to the love, leadership, and generosity of Beverly LaHaye. I echo the words of my father, who said that she was without a doubt the most influential woman in America,” said Liberty Chancellor Jonathan Falwell, referring to Liberty founder Dr. Jerry Falwell. “Mrs. LaHaye’s commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to articulating biblical principles in the public arena helped to build a grassroots organization and a legacy of faithfulness that will endure for generations.”

“Beverly LaHaye was a champion for women throughout this country and, most importantly, she was a champion for Christ,” said Liberty President Dondi Costin. “I am so thankful for the life and legacy of Beverly LaHaye, whose personal courage inspired generations of citizens to contend for truth and stand for righteousness. Liberty University would not be the institution it is today without the unwavering support of the LaHaye family. While we grieve her passing, we rejoice that she and her husband, Tim, are together once again and now see their Savior face to face.”

Liberty alumna Penny Nance (’88), who has served as CEO for CFA since 2010, hailed LaHaye as an advocate for Christian women across America.

“Mrs. LaHaye championed the forgotten women of this country, whose voices were not being heard in Washington and in the culture,” Nance said. “Her life is a testament to the impact one woman with a vision and mission can have on the course of history.”

Beverly LaHaye served as president of the CWA until 2006 and retired from its board in 2020.

She was married to Dr. Tim LaHaye for 69 years before his passing in 2016. She was the mother of four, grandmother of nine, and great-grandmother of 20. Beverly LaHaye served in numerous ministries and helped author more than 30 books.

A memorial to her life is published on the CFA website.