The Christian community is mourning the passing of Dr. James Dobson, a beloved faith leader, author, and advocate for families, whose voice touched millions around the world. His son, Ryan Dobson, confirmed the news with a heartfelt tribute, honoring his father’s unwavering commitment to both faith and family.

“My dad, Dr. James Dobson, has gone home to be with the Lord,” Ryan wrote in his statement. “I’m walking through the kind of grief that words can’t quite reach. But even in the middle of it, I keep returning to this verse: ‘For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.’ (John 3:17). That was my dad’s heart.”

Dr. Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family and later Family Talk, dedicated his life to strengthening marriages, protecting children, and guiding families through the lens of Christian faith. His books, radio broadcasts, and public ministry spanned decades, making him one of the most influential evangelical leaders of his time.

Known for his boldness and willingness to speak difficult truths, Dr. Dobson never shied away from addressing the cultural issues of his day. Yet those who knew him best emphasize that beneath his strong words was a profound desire to uplift, encourage, and heal. “Yes, he was bold,” Ryan reflected. “Yes, he spoke hard truths. But beneath all of it was a deep, quiet desire to help families, to protect children, and to introduce people to Jesus. Not to condemn. To save. To restore. To heal.”

His impact was not limited to public ministry — he lived his values at home. Ryan shared that his father’s greatest joy was not merely that his messages reached millions, but that his children and grandchildren would walk in truth and carry on a legacy of faith. “He didn’t just preach it—he lived it. With me. And with his grandchildren. His greatest hope wasn’t just that the world would hear him—but that generations after him would know the love of Christ and walk in truth.”

That legacy, Ryan affirmed, continues within his family and in countless households around the world shaped by Dr. Dobson’s work. “That legacy lives on in my family—and in so many of yours,” he said.

As the family grieves, they are also finding comfort in their faith and the promises of God. “We’re spending this time together—grieving, remembering, praying, and holding tight to the promises of God,” Ryan shared.

Dr. Dobson’s influence extended far beyond sermons and broadcasts. To many, he was a trusted voice in navigating the challenges of family life, a defender of Christian values, and a leader whose ministry gave countless individuals hope, strength, and guidance.

Ryan Dobson extended an invitation to those impacted by his father’s life to share their own reflections: “If my dad’s words, work, or witness ever impacted your life, I’d be honored to hear your story. Your prayers and reflections mean more than you know.”

For more information, contact details, and resources, the family directs friends and supporters to www.ryandobson.com
.

Though his voice has been stilled, Dr. James Dobson’s legacy endures — in his writings, in the lives he touched, and in the generations who will carry forward his passion for faith, family, and the love of Christ.