Veteran Nigerian gospel pioneer Evangelist Toun Soetan, known as Shouet, died March 13, 2026, at 73 after decades of ministry.
Famed composer of “Darling Jesus,” “Train Up Your Child,” and “Ke Pe Jesu,” her 40-year ministry shaped Yoruba worship.
Pathfinder Co-Founder Shaped Gospel Generations
A former teacher and Pathfinder College co-founder, she led Trinity World Evangelical Ministry, training generations.
The respected evangelist and gospel music icon, revered for his profound spiritual depth, was widely recognised as the original composer of the popular Christian chorus “Darling Jesus.”
This timeless song, born from his fervent prayer sessions in modest Nigerian chapels, has remained a staple in churches across Nigeria.
Uplifting congregations with its simple yet powerful melody.
Generations of worshippers in bustling Lagos cathedrals and rural village fellowships continue to sing “Darling Jesus.”
Crediting the evangelist’s divine inspiration for its enduring appeal.
His composition, first penned amid personal trials, transcends denominations, fostering unity during revivals and Sunday services nationwide.
“Darling Jesus” Echoes Evangelist’s Enduring Legacy
The evangelist’s legacy endures through “Darling Jesus,” a hymn that echoes in Pentecostal gatherings and Anglican choirs alike.
Its lyrics, rich in adoration and surrender, have inspired countless covers, cementing his status as a pioneering figure in Nigeria’s vibrant gospel music heritage.
Reacting to her passing, Kunle Bakare, former Secretary of Oyo State Entertainment Writers Association of Nigeria, described the late singer as a spiritually gifted minister.
Her music carried deep messages of faith, resonating profoundly with listeners nationwide.
Weaving Bible into Soul-Stirring Melodies
Bakare highlighted her unique ability to weave biblical truths into soul-stirring melodies during church services and concerts.
Fans mourn her departure, cherishing albums that offered hope amid life’s trials and spiritual warfare.
Her legacy as a minister endures through recordings played in homes and fellowships across Nigeria.
Bakare urged continued celebration of her divine gift, ensuring her messages inspire future generations of gospel artists.
“The late gospel music player will also be remembered for her music college, where she trained so many gospel music players, most of whom are reigning today,” Bakare said.
Also confirming the development, gospel musician Peters Olaniyi Olusegun announced the news in a heartfelt Facebook post.
Shared with thousands of followers, it expressed profound grief over the beloved singer’s sudden departure from earthly ministry.
Olusegun Hails Her Heaven-Sent Voice
Olusegun recounted their shared stages at revivals, praising her voice as heaven-sent and irreplaceable in Nigeria’s gospel scene.
The post triggered an outpouring of tributes from fans mourning the profound loss to Christian music.
He called for prayers for her family, urging believers to honor her legacy through continued worship.
Olusegun’s Post Unites Gospel Mourners
Olusegun’s announcement united the community in sorrow, amplifying echoes of her timeless songs across social media.
“We just lost another legend this morning, Mummy Toun Soetan. May the Lord be with the family and Daddy Titus Soetan,” he wrote.
Beyond Darling Jesus, Evangelist Soetan created other notable gospel songs, including Ke Pe Jesu and Cast Your Burdens.
The late gospel singer also mentored upcoming gospel musicians through her music college.
Trained Gospel Stars Nationwide
Her curriculum blended rigorous vocal techniques with spiritual discipline, nurturing talents from humble beginnings into national stars.
Graduates credit her patient guidance for their breakthroughs in recordings and live performances.
The college continues her vision post-passing, producing worship leaders for churches and events.
Her investment in youth ensures her harmonious influence resonates eternally in Nigeria’s thriving gospel community.
