Growing up in a home where faith was steadfast, yet brokenness abounded, the voice of Dr. Dobson, over the radio and through his books, let me know that there was hope, healing, and “a better way to be a family.” Listening to his broadcasts on our Christian radio station as a young teen gave me hope and a desire to be a Christian counselor. Pursuing that vocation and then serving on Focus’ counseling staff for a year and a half during the mid-’90s was an honor and a privilege. It was also a time of significant healing, which gave me the courage to embrace motherhood and the eventual parenting of 3 beautiful children who are now grown and embracing their own journeys of faith. My husband of 34 years and I now have a grandchild, with another on the way, and I can honestly and wholeheartedly share that Dr. Dobson’s and Shirley’s ministries spurred us on during all of the seasons of sorrow and joy that this life brings. My prayers for his beloved Shirley, Danae, and Ryan as they grieve his passing. He is now part of the “church triumphant,” that beautiful communion of saints, and our hearts both ache yet feel comforted with this faith reality that sustains us during times of sorrow. Until we meet again, Dr. Dobson. I know you were met with rejoicing, joy, and laughter in heaven by Dr. Ogden, Dr. Gatewood, and so many others who were such meaningful mentors to me. Thank you for the courage to answer your calling. We don’t know what we would have done without you.

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3. Growing up in a home where faith was steadfast, yet brokenness abounded, the voice of Dr. Dobson, over the radio and through his books, let me know that there was hope, healing, and “a better way to be a family.” Listening to his broadcasts on our Christian radio station as a young teen gave me hope and a desire to be a Christian counselor. Pursuing that vocation and then serving on Focus’ counseling staff for a year and a half during the mid-’90s was an honor and a privilege. It was also a time of significant healing, which gave me the courage to embrace motherhood and the eventual parenting of 3 beautiful children who are now grown and embracing their own journeys of faith. My husband of 34 years and I now have a grandchild, with another on the way, and I can honestly and wholeheartedly share that Dr. Dobson’s and Shirley’s ministries spurred us on during all of the seasons of sorrow and joy that this life brings. My prayers for his beloved Shirley, Danae, and Ryan as they grieve his passing. He is now part of the “church triumphant,” that beautiful communion of saints, and our hearts both ache yet feel comforted with this faith reality that sustains us during times of sorrow. Until we meet again, Dr. Dobson. I know you were met with rejoicing, joy, and laughter in heaven by Dr. Ogden, Dr. Gatewood, and so many others who were such meaningful mentors to me. Thank you for the courage to answer your calling. We don’t know what we would have done without you.