Dr. James Dobson, founder of the Focus on the Family Christian ministry, has died at 89.
Dobson, one of the most influential Christian leaders of the past half-century and former adviser to five U.S. presidents, passed away Thursday morning.
He was a psychologist, New York Times best-selling author, and Radio Hall of Fame broadcaster who dedicated his life to strengthening marriages, guiding parents, and defending biblical values by championing the central role of family in America, according to the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute.
Dobson founded Focus on the Family in 1977. The organization became one of the largest evangelical organizations in the world. It fed generations of families looking to find biblical help as they raised families in a secular world.
Dobson also wrote over 70 books aimed at helping Christian families, including “The Strong-Willed Child,” “The New Dare to Discipline,” and “Bringing Up Boys, Bringing Up Girls.”
Dobson left Focus on the Family in 2010, continuing on to found Family Talk and launching the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, “dedicated to preserving the biblical institutions of marriage and family by encouraging, inspiring, and leading parents and children to build their lives on God’s Word.” Family Talk announced Dobson’s death on Facebook.
“Today, we share the news of the passing of our beloved founder, Dr. James C. Dobson. He went home to be with the Lord peacefully, following a brief illness,” the post read. “Dr. Dobson’s unwavering faith and tireless devotion to the family shaped generations. For nearly five decades, his voice championed life, marriage, and the truth of God’s Word.”
Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, also issued a statement.
“Dr. Dobson was a pioneer — a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family, and culture,” Bauer said. “His bold leadership, integrity, and compassion helped equip countless families to thrive in a world of shifting values. He was a mentor, a counselor, and a steady voice of truth in turbulent times.”
In a post on the Family Institute website, Dr. Dobson is described as, “one of the most influential Christian leaders of the last half-century and a tireless advocate for the traditional family.”
The post further stated, “A frequent presence in Washington, D.C., Dr. Dobson played key roles in presidential commissions, with appointments by Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. He was instrumental in shaping national conversations around pornography, gambling, teen pregnancy prevention, and the sanctity of human life, and he served on President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board.
“Dr. Dobson’s voice not only influenced policy but also gave hope to millions seeking practical, faith-based wisdom for their homes. His legacy lives on through the innumerable families he inspired to build their lives on the foundation of Scripture.”
In comments about President Donald J. Trump, Dr. Dobson said the president is a gentleman and that Trump fights to protect religious freedom, calling him the “most pro-life president” we have had.
Today, we share the news of the passing of our beloved founder, Dr. James C. Dobson. He went home to be with the Lord peacefully, following a brief illness.
Dr. Dobson’s unwavering faith and tireless devotion to the family shaped generations. pic.twitter.com/DKzaOVsEJS
— Dr. James Dobson Family Institute (@DrJamesDobsonFT) August 21, 2025
Social media posts are flooding platforms. Podcaster Eric Metaxas wrote: “It has been one of the great honors of my life to know Dr. James Dobson. What a hero! He was not afraid to bring his faith into the public sphere for God’s purposes. He has finished the race — to God’s glory! Hallelujah! May we all follow in his footsteps. Praise the LORD!”
Journalist and Christian author Megan Basham wrote, “So many car rides growing up featured the teaching of James Dobson. He encouraged a generation of parents to apply the wisdom of scripture, not the world, to childrearing.
“He taught us that it is worth fighting for the true, the good, and the beautiful in the public square. Today, at age 89, he is in the arms of his savior after having run his race well. Rest in peace, brother.’
Today we remember a hero of the faith. Our Founder, Dr. James C. Dobson, passed away this morning. Although we’re sorrowful over this loss, we are thankful for his legacy of family ministry that will live on for future generations, and rejoice that he is now in the presence of… pic.twitter.com/imTdjoSo9u
— Focus on the Family (@FocusFamily) August 21, 2025
Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Alabama) wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. James C. Dobson, a true pillar of faith and family values. His unwavering commitment to strengthening families and advancing biblical truths shaped countless lives across our nation. My prayers are with his wife Shirley, their children Danae and Ryan, and the entire family. May we honor his legacy by continuing the work he devoted his life to.”
Radio host Jenna Ellis wrote, “ He had a significant impact on our nation, encouraging families to prioritize discipleship of their children and he will be greatly missed.”
Pastor Michael A Youssef wrote, “Dr James Dobson was a dear, cherished friend and a great encourager to me and my ministry. He was a tireless defender of the family. Now he heard the words he longed for from the lips of his Lord and savior ‘well done…’ Indeed, very well done Dr Dobson.”
@DrJamesDobsonFT
Dr James Dobson was a dear ,cherished friend and a great encourager to me and my ministry. He was a tireless defender of the family
Now he heard the words he longed for from the lips of his Lord and savior “ well done…”
Indeed very well done Dr Dobson— Michael A Youssef (@MichaelAYoussef) August 21, 2025
