Dr. James Clayton Dobson Jr. (April 21, 1936 – August 21, 2025)
Dr. James C. Dobson Jr., the American child psychologist and influential evangelical leader who founded Focus on the Family in 1977, passed away at the age of 89 on August 21, 2025. His death was confirmed by the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute.: content Reference[oaicite:1] {index=1}
Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dobson rose to prominence with his radio show offering parenting advice rooted in traditional Christian values. Under his leadership, focus on the Family became a powerful media and political force, influencing public discourse and shaping conservative evangelical thought.: content Reference[oaicite:2] {index=2}
Dobson was a New York Times bestselling author, a Radio Hall of Fame broadcaster, and a trusted adviser to five U.S. presidents—from Ronald Reagan to Donald Trump. His legacy includes establishing the Family Research Council and promoting policies against abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.: content Reference[oaicite:3] {index=3}
After stepping down from Focus on the Family in 2010, he founded the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, where he continued his impact through the nationally syndicated radio program “Family Talk,” reaching over half a million listeners each week.: content Reference[oaicite:4] {index=4}
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley; their children, Danae and Ryan; daughter‑in‑law Laura; and their grandchildren. His legacy remains both influential and divisive, reflecting a figure who dominated the moral and cultural debates of his time.: content Reference[oaicite:5] {index=5}