Focus on the Family Founder Dr. James Dobson Passes Away at 89
Dr. James C. Dobson, a renowned Christian psychologist, New York best-selling author, and founder of Focus on the Family, passed away Thursday at the age of 89. According to a statement by Gary Bauer, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, Dobson is remembered as “a pioneer—a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family and culture.”
“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,” Bauer said.
Dobson, who was born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, founded Focus on the Family in 1977, which became one of the largest faith-based organizations in the world. His daily radio broadcasts are heard on over 4,000 radio stations across North America and translated into 27 languages in more than 160 countries.
He later launched the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute (JDFI) after leaving Focus on the Family in 2010 and continued his broadcasts through Family Talk radio, which is broadcast weekdays on over 1,500 radio outlets and is heard by over half a million people weekly.
Dobson authored over 70 books, including bestselling titles like The New Dare to Discipline, The New Strong-Willed Child, Bringing Up Boys, Bringing Up Girls, and When God Doesn’t Make Sense.
In addition to his work, Dobson served as an advisor to five U.S. presidents, including playing key roles in presidential commissions appointed by Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush, and served on President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board. His influence also extended into public policy debates on pornography, teen pregnancy, gambling, and pro-life issues.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley, their children Danae and Ryan, daughter-in-law Laura, and two grandchildren.
Related Resource: James Dobson's Candid Interview with Pastor Greg Laurie: His Childhood, Marriage, and How to Build Strong Families
Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with renowned psychologist, author, and speaker Dr. James Dobson. As the founder of Focus on the Family and Family Talk, Dr. Dobson has shaped generations through his nationally syndicated radio programs and bestselling books like Bringing Up Boys, The Strong-Willed Child, and Dare to Discipline. Their conversation spans Dr. Dobson’s formative years, his marriage, and his enduring commitment to building strong, faith-centered families.
Listeners will also hear reflections on Dr. Dobson’s historic interview with serial killer Ted Bundy, conducted on the eve of Bundy’s execution—a moment that underscored the urgency of moral clarity and parental guidance. Together, Pastor Laurie and Dr. Dobson explore how to raise children with Heaven in mind, emphasizing the divine inspiration behind family and the spiritual responsibility of parenting. This wide-ranging interview offers timeless wisdom for anyone seeking to nurture a godly home.
Pastor Greg's statement on the passing of James Dobson:
Dr. James Dobson has gone to Heaven at the age of 89.
I knew James very well, and I can tell you he was a true man of God who lived a life of integrity. I’ll never forget that after our son Christopher went to Heaven 17 years ago, Dr. Dobson personally called us and spent a great deal of time ministering to our whole family.
Over the years I had the privilege of interviewing him many times, including once at a Harvest Crusade, and he also interviewed me on his radio program. We went on a trip to Israel together, as well as to the White House on more than one occasion. He and his devoted wife Shirley shared such a beautiful marriage—one that we would all aspire to.
His life and ministry touched millions as he faithfully taught us how to build godly families. He was a legend, a treasure to the church, and he will be greatly missed.
Listen to Pastor Laurie and Dr. Dobson's conversation by clicking the play button below. If you enjoy this conversation, be sure to follow The Greg Laurie Show on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
Dr. Dobson’s impact on faith, family, and culture is undeniable, but so are the questions his legacy raises. Has his approach helped the Church engage culture more faithfully, or made a divide between believers? What should we keep and what should we reconsider as we move forward? Join the conversation on Crosswalk Forums!
Photo Credit: ©Focus on the Family/SWN Design
Originally published August 21, 2025.
