Dr. James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family and one of the most influential Christian leaders of the past half-century, has gone home to be with the Lord. He passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, following a brief illness. He was 89.

For nearly 50 years, Dr. Dobson dedicated his life to strengthening families through biblical truth. The Dr. James Dobson Family Institute announced his passing, remembering him as “a pioneer — a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family, and culture.”

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

Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at JDFI, reflected on his legacy: “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.”

A Life of Ministry and Influence

Dobson’s impact stretched across homes, churches, and even the halls of power. He served as an advisor to five U.S. presidents and was once described by The New York Times as “one of the nation’s most influential evangelical leaders.” His commitment to biblical values made him a trusted voice in the defense of marriage, the sanctity of life, and the authority of Scripture.

In 1977, he founded Focus on the Family, a ministry that would grow into one of the largest evangelical organizations in the world. Focus became a household name through its resources, counseling, and radio programs. It also launched “Adventures in Odyssey,” a beloved family drama series that expanded into books, devotionals, and videos—impacting generations of children and parents.

After leaving Focus in 2010, Dobson established the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, continuing his mission with a more personal emphasis on broadcasting and teaching. As the ministry explained, he remained “centered on helping parents raise godly children and guiding couples toward Christ-centered marriages.”

Author, Broadcaster, and Advocate

Dobson was a psychologist, best-selling author, and Radio Hall of Fame broadcaster. Over the course of his career, he wrote more than 70 books, including “The New Strong-Willed Child,” “The New Dare to Discipline,” “Bringing Up Boys,” and “When God Doesn’t Make Sense.” His books, broadcasts, and teachings equipped millions with practical wisdom for navigating family life in light of biblical principles.

The Dr. James Dobson Family Institute noted that his work “reached millions, influencing not only households but also the cultural conversations of our nation.” Through it all, his heart was to provide encouragement for believers to stand firm in a rapidly changing world.

A Lasting Legacy

Though the world grieves the loss of such a powerful voice for truth, there is also a deep sense of gratitude. As one tribute put it, “Today, we grieve the loss of a spiritual father and champion of truth, but we also rejoice that Dr. Dobson has received his eternal reward.”

The institute he founded has pledged to continue carrying forward his mission so that “the torch he lit will not be extinguished.”

As the body of Christ reflects on his remarkable life, believers everywhere are encouraged to lift the Dobson family in prayer. His voice may have fallen silent here on earth, but the impact of his faithfulness will echo for generations to come.