As newlyweds in 1978, my husband and I watched Dr. Dobson on video at our church. We read many of his well-written books that helped us raise our children who now have children of their own who love the Lord. They enjoyed “Adventures in Odyssey” back then, and now the grands do too. Dr. Dobson’s radio program had such wisdom with wonderful guests to encourage young parents to be a godly influence in our children’s schools, our community, and beyond. Thank you, Dr. Dobson, for ALL your years on the radio. My deepest sympathy to Shirley, Danae, Ryan and his family, and the others at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute.

Debbie

As a teacher in my 20s with classrooms of around 30 children each year, I had several boys one year whom I needed to have submit to me rather than me to them. I read Dr. Dobson’s book, “The Strong-Willed Child,” and learned some important truths which helped shape my thinking and thankfully helped the school year to go properly. Little did I know that God was also preparing me to mother a child with a strong personality. I praise Him for His help in doing that; but earthly-wise, He also used Dr. Dobson’s book. I am thankful for the wisdom that God gave Dr. Dobson and that he was able to share that with us.

Sharon

Dr. Dobson has been my mentor through his many books, through Focus on the Family, Focus over Fifty, and telephone counselors. His marriage to Shirley has been a wonderful model for my husband, Ray, and me. I know that tomorrow, August 27, would have been his 65th wedding anniversary. Ray and I celebrated our 65th last March. I feel sadness in Dr. Dobson’s passing, but also joy, knowing that he is in the presence of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. I am praying that Shirley, Danae, and Ryan will know God’s peace, comfort, strength, and joy. I love you, Judy Pearson

Judy

My wife, Joni, and I were married December 26, 1981, and by October 1982 had our first child, which was preceded by Joni (pregnant) and me hosting the “Focus on the Family” film series in our little Methodist church, behaving as if we knew what we were doing. :) A couple of years later, following the birth of our second child, we hosted the “Turn Your Heart Toward Home” film series. I think we literally have read every book Dr. Dobson ever wrote. When our girls were teens, we attended a “Be There” conference in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Hanging on the wall in our foyer is the certificate of attendance given at the end of the conference. “Be there” has been our family motto ever since, and our older daughter, who is now 42 years, has a company called Be There Ltd. Before our girls graduated from high school, we made a trip “out west” (from Ohio) and had a wonderful visit at the FOTF campus, which included a visit to the broadcasting studio and the newly created Whit’s End. When our older daughter was in college, she opted for a semester at the FOTF Institute and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Her two grandmothers, along with Joni and me, attended her graduation at the Institute. Once upon a time, in the early ’90s as I best recall, Joni and I attended what I believe was the only FOTF Attorney’s Conference and had the distinct pleasure of meeting Dr. and Mrs. Dobson during that visit. It was an event and a handshake that we cherish to this day. We have financially supported FOTF for many years and consider it one of the best investments we’ve ever made. Even though we are a significant distance from Colorado, we managed to visit the Focus campus again about three years ago when we visited a young couple from our area attending Charis Bible College. The emotions we experienced as we walked about the facilities, and had our photo taken by an employee who was passing by, were “priceless,” as they say. We think most highly of the Dobsons, FOTF, and the extensions and fruit thereof. Over the years, I often pondered how nice it would be to sit and talk with Dr. Dobson. It is without hesitation or reservation that we express that Dr. Dobson and Focus have most positively impacted our family and friends and will continue to do so for more than the current generation. Blessings and best regards, Randy and Joni Peddicord

Randall

My mother took great encouragement from Dr. Dobson’s books on child rearing. I am the result of those lessons. I even had an opportunity as a young woman to hear Ryan speak and was blessed yet again by his testimony and Dr. Dobson’s love, fortitude, and unfailing faith. As my husband and I began our journey as parents (of three strong-willed boys), my mother blessed us with the whole set of Dr. Dobson’s books. He encouraged, corrected, and cheered us on without ever having met us! We listened to him on Focus on the Family and then later on Family Talk.

Nikki

I will always remember the first time I saw Dr. James Dobson. He had an undeniable presence that commanded the room, and I stood in awe of this incredible man of faith who has been a constant influence in my life. He has mentored me since I was newly saved and married, guiding me through motherhood and now into my role as a grandmother. My toddlers, teens, and adult children have all grown up under his teachings, and I am thrilled to share these lessons with my grandkids. I have prayed for Dr. Dobson and his family countless times over the years, and I am grateful for the abundant blessings God has bestowed upon both his life and mine through his ministry. Thank you, James Dobson, for the love I have felt and for the invaluable lessons I’ve learned along the way. May God bless and give your family overwhelming peace during this difficult time.

Michellee

The Lord brought me to conviction of sin and repentance while listening to “Tilly” on Focus on the Family in 1985. I listened to Dr. Dobson daily for many, many years, always learning so much and growing in my faith. He always pointed people to Jesus and the Word, which is why I trusted him and what he taught and discussed as he interviewed guests or summarized one of his books. The Lord continues to use radio broadcasting as a teaching tool in my life. Family Talk is a great blessing, and I’m so thankful Dr. Dobson started it right after his departure from Focus on the Family. There really are no words to describe Dr. Dobson’s impact on my life. Millions of people can say that! His family and staff are certainly in my prayers. They are not forgotten.

Chris

Where does a young mom go to turn around and stop international trauma? For me, Focus on the Family radio was a godsend. I heard the program each morning on Praise 106.5 out of Lynden, WA. The guests interviewed by Dr. Dobson taught me to think, feel, talk, and set boundaries. I also learned to forgive versus seek revenge. The variety of topics and opinions got me to establish values and principles of family, parenting, traditions. In addition, I learned to love, accept all, let God be the judge, and use God-given talents/gifts/skills to meet a need and find purpose to make the world a better place until Jesus comes.

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