Voddie Baucham Jr., a theologian and educator known for his leadership within conservative Christian circles, passed away unexpectedly on September 25 at the age of 56. According to his family, he experienced a sudden medical issue that led to his death.
Baucham was serving as the president of Founders Seminary in Florida at the time of his passing, a role he began in early 2025 after returning to the United States from Zambia. He had spent nearly a decade in Lusaka, where he worked as the dean of theology at African Christian University.
Born in Los Angeles on March 11, 1969, Baucham began his college years at New Mexico State University and Rice University, where he played football. He later completed a bachelor’s degree at Houston Baptist University, followed by theological training at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctor of ministry degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
In 1993, Baucham established a ministry that carried his name and began traveling as a speaker and teacher. He later became the pastor of Grace Family Baptist Church in Spring, Texas, where he remained until relocating to Zambia in 2015.
Throughout his career, Baucham gained a national following among conservative evangelicals. He was known for his writing and public speaking, often addressing themes related to family, theology, and cultural issues. His 2021 book, ‘Fault Lines’, ebates within American churches and reached a wide readership.
Though considered a leading voice in some Southern Baptist circles, Baucham was not officially affiliated with a Southern Baptist church, which affected his eligibility for denominational leadership. In 2021, he was nominated for roles within the Southern Baptist Convention but was ultimately not elected.
Baucham is survived by his wife of 30 years, Bridget, along with their nine children and several grandchildren. Funeral details have not yet been announced.
