Focus on the Family founder James Dobson died on August 21, 2025, at the age of 89. He impacted many generations with his books, his talks, and his foundations.
Early Life
Dobson was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1936. In 1967, he received his doctorate in psychology. [1]
Books
James Dobson published his first book, Dare to Discipline, in 1970. He continued to publish other books including, Complete Marriage and Family Home Reference Guide, Building Confidence in Your Child, Bringing Up Girls, Bringing Up Boys, and Love Must be Tough. [2]
Founding
In 1977, Dobson founded Focus on the Family, creating one of the largest faith-based organizations in the world. [3] When he left Focus on the Family, he founded Dr. James Dobson Family Institute in 2010.
President Commissions
Throughout his life, James Dobson also served on presidential commissions and boards for Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Donald Trump. [4]
Death
James Dobson died on August 21st at the age of 89. Just a couple days before his death, he was still being the influential person people knew him as.
Notes:
- ^James Dobson dies; leaves legacy as influential, at times controversial, Christian leader (go back ↩)
- ^Books by James C. Dobson (go back ↩)
- ^Dr. James C. Dobson, Visionary, Family Advocate, and Founder of the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, Dies at 89 (go back ↩)
- ^Dr. James C. Dobson, Visionary, Family Advocate, and Founder of the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, Dies at 89 (go back ↩)
