The religious broadcasting landscape has lost a stalwart pillar, Pat Robertson, former presidential candidate and iconic television host.

His death was confirmed by the Christian Broadcasting Network, a foundation he himself had built. His passing occurred in the early hours of Thursday at his residence in Virginia Beach.

Pat Robertson:  A Life Dedicated to Faith and Service

Born Marion Gordon Robertson in Virginia in 1930, he came to be fondly known as "Pat", a nickname given by his older brother, Willis Robertson Jr.

He is a cherished son of Sen. A. Willis Robertson. Pat's calling to serve God led him to become an ordained minister of the Southern Baptist church.

 The Christian Broadcasting Network and Its Influence

In 1960, Robertson breathed life into The Christian Broadcasting Network, which gradually burgeoned into a leading voice in Christian conservative circles.

His powerful, faith-oriented political commentary echoed weekly on "The 700 Club," a platform that magnified his influence for six decades.

 A Life Lived Beyond the Pulpit

He was not just a religious broadcaster. His life's portfolio was a blend of being a distinguished educator, humanitarian, author, and accomplished businessman.

His dedication to glorifying God was illustrated in his endeavors as he built the foundation for Regent University, formerly known as CBN University, in 1977.

 A Stint in Politics and Military Service

Robertson also tested the waters of politics, vying for the Republican nomination for the presidency in 1988, after the term of President Ronald Reagan.

Although the eventual winner was George H.W. Bush, his candidacy marked a crucial step for religious voices in political discourse. In addition to his rich career, he was a decorated military veteran, having served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War.

Tributes Pour in for Pat Robertson

The vacuum left by Robertson is palpable. Regent University mourns the loss of its founder, and tributes extol him as a globally-renowned leader and a dedicated servant of God.

Bishop T.D. Jakes' statement encapsulates the loss, saying Robertson "shattered the stain glass window," ushering faith into political relevance.

His life was a testament to his faith, a story of service that saw the reach of the religious broadcaster extending far beyond his pulpit, into homes and political forums.

His wife Dede, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage, preceded him in death in 2022. He leaves behind four children, including his son, Gordon, who has inherited the responsibility of his father's broadcasting legacy.