Dr. James C. Dobson Passes

Dr. James C. Dobson, renowned Christian Radio broadcaster, leader, psychologist, author, and advisor to five U.S. presidents, passed away today, August 21, 2025, at age 89. He spent his life advocating for biblical values, strong marriages, and the traditional family. 

Launching in 1977 Dr Dobson produced the daily radio program Focus on the Family, which was broadcast in more than a dozen languages and on over 7,000 stations worldwide, and reportedly heard daily by more than 220 million people in 164 countries. In 2010, he launched the radio broadcast Family Talk with Dr. James Dobson.

“Dr. Dobson was a pioneer—a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family and culture,” said Gary Bauer, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute. “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.”

Salem Radio Network (SRN) VP/New & Talk Programming Tom Tradup expressed his thoughts on the loss of Dr Dobson, “All of us at SRN are sad to learn that our Lord has called Dr. James Dobson home this morning…after a lifetime of serving as a soldier for Christ. Dr. Dobson literally saved generations of Americans—and Christians worldwide—through his 1977 founding of Focus on the Family and, later, The James Dobson Family Institute. He was the definition of a “good and faithful servant.”

Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dr. James Dobson founded Focus on the Family in 1977, growing it into a global ministry with broadcasts on 4,000+ stations in 160 countries. After leaving in 2010, he established the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute and launched Family Talk, continuing his mission to provide biblical guidance for families.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley; their children, Danae and Ryan; daughter-in-law Laura; and two grandchildren.

Tradup added, “While we grieve the loss of this remarkable man of God, we also rejoice, knowing he is now in the presence of his Savior—whom he faithfully served for a lifetime.”

SRN News will air a Special Report on the breaking story of the death of Focus on the Family” Dr James Dobson. The one-minute report will air at 9:30 am E.T. and will be available on the bottom of the hour headlines.