Dr. James C. Dobson, one of the most recognized Christian leaders of our time, has stepped into eternity at the age of 89 after experiencing a brief illness. He passed peacefully, on August 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shape the body of Christ for generations.
In a Facebook post, Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk announced his passing.
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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. For nearly five decades, his voice championed life, marriage, and the truth of God’s Word.
As we grieve, we also give thanks — for his life, his legacy, and the mission that lives on through the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute. We invite you to join us in prayer and in carrying this mission forward.
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” —Psalm 116:15
As the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute noted, he spent nearly 50 years of his life dedicated to strengthening families through biblical truth. Dobson became a trusted voice in the defense of marriage, the sanctity of life and the call to live by the authority of Scripture. His best-selling books, nationally syndicated broadcasts, and tireless advocacy reached millions, influencing not only households but also the cultural conversations of our nation.
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While his public platform was vast, Dobson’s heart was always centered on helping parents raise godly children and guiding couples toward Christ-centered marriages. His wisdom and courage provided believers with both practical tools and spiritual encouragement to stand firm in a rapidly changing world.
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. His voice will continue to echo through the ministries he built and through the lives forever changed by his faithfulness.
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The Dr. James Dobson Family Institute has pledged to continue carrying forward his mission, ensuring that the torch he lit will not be extinguished. Lift up the Dobson family in prayer during this time.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
I still treasure a letter I received in 1978 from Dr. Dobson, written in response to one I had sent after completing my Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. In my letter, I thanked him for courageously leading the way as a strong Christian voice advocating for children and families. To my amazement, he replied with such warmth and personal kindness—a gesture I will never forget. Truly, heaven’s gain is our great loss.
For twenty-one years I had the distinct pleasure of serving with Dr. James Dobson at Focus on the Family in the Correspondent Deparment answering letters on his behalf. Over those years, I observed first hand Dr. Dobson’s dedicated support of family values, marriage and courageous defense of the unborn. As a result of Dr. Dobson’s fearless witness, I was inspired to become more active in the pro-life effort, even to the point of serving ninety days incarceration fir my own peaceful, active defense of the unborn. As a result, I experienced a deeper respect from Dr. Dobson for supporting his efforts in this manner.To this day, we have shared a wonderful friendship. May Dr. Dobson rest in peace in the eternal joy he so richly earned from his sacrificial life.