Tributes

We invite you to celebrate the life of Dr. James C. Dobson by sharing your thoughts and memories here.

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This page will display the words of people from around the world who have been impacted by the life and ministry of Dr. James Dobson.

You may also leave your tribute by calling 844-823-2669.

Recent Tributes

I was a youth minister for 20 years and I am currently a preaching minister going on 36 years of ministry. Focus on the Family under the leadership of James Dobson impacted my ministries in countless ways. I am also a father of 4 and grandfather of now 10 grandkids (newest was born August 19) I have utilized so many resources over the years in my personal life that I can’t even count. What a blessing! Rejoicing that James is now with the Lord! We sorrow but wow he has received his reward. Praying for the family to have the peace of God that transcends understanding.

Nathan

I was blessed to be part of the formation of the Louisiana Family Forum, one of Dr. Dobson’s early Family Policy Councils. His wisdom in building an organization enabled us to establish a firm foundation that remains today. He set high standards that were not to be compromised. The extensive vetting process for guests of Focus and now Family Talk were daunting but ensured words of advice that came from guests could be trusted. I have always admired his commitment to excellence in his personal and professional life. My hope and prayer is that the life he lived, the choices he made, the courage with which he spoke Truth, and the grace he freely gave to his critics, will be emulated by those of us who follow in his footsteps of ministry. His bold words poured forth from a heart filled with the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which he wanted the world to know and love.

Jill

Dr James Dobson. The hero teacher who loved and cared about the family. His wisdom and humor helped me so much to love and raise my 3 children. When they were small I saw his 6 week series on child raising that showed me the beauty of God’s family and my part in it. There are no words to express his impact on us all. My heart goes out to all especially his family that will miss him so much and will some day “Be There” with him. Love to all in the Lord Jesus Christ. He honored Him. Thank you.

Judy

When I became a Christian in the early 80s I had two daughters, aged 3 and 2 years. I don’t remember exactly how I found his radio show, I am eternally grateful I did. Listening on a regular basis greatly impacted my child rearing. So much good advice and his voice was so gentle and soothing and easy to take instruction from. I thank God I found him when I did because he played such an important role in my life when I was raising my family. I also read some of his books. I’m sure he heard the words of Jesus Christ upon his arrival “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

Eileen

Years ago I wrote a letter expressing my gratitude for Dr. Dobson and the hundreds of messages I had listened to by then that had strengthened my faith in ways I simply cannot adequately communicate. I mentioned that I was going through a personal struggle at the time and thanked Dr. Dobson and the ministry for helping me through it. To my surprise, I received a letter back, from Dr. Dobson himself! I understand that it would be simply impossible for him to respond to each and every letter and cherish this memento all the more now. One of my favorite verses is ‘By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches and honor and life.’ Dr. Dobson was a crystal clear living example of this profound truth.

Aaron

Dear Dobson family – we cried joyful tears with you when Dr. Dobson returned to Focus on the Family after his stroke, and we’re crying tears of sorrow, transient though they be, with you today. We laughed, cried, learned, worshipped, and became better people through years and years of radio broadcasts. Thank God we can still do so through the recordings, and we will see Dr. Dobson again soon. Bless you all.

Doug

My mom listened to Dr. Dobson’s radio show daily and read all his books. I had the best parents and I know it was enhanced by Dr. Dobson. I then passed those parenting ideas to my own children and now grandchildren. As a counselor I was so privileged to attend the Counseling Enrichment Program at Focus on the Family campus in the 90s. Dr. Dobson had a huge influence on my life and I will be forever grateful.

Cheryl

I’m 67 years old and listening to Dr. Dobson on almost a daily basis has been a part of my entire adult life. His faith bolstered my own. I clung to his when I wasn’t sure of mine and now I couldn’t be more sure of anything. Thank you Jim. I look forward to meeting you one day in the presence of our Lord and Savior.

Susan

Dr. Dobson was the REAL deal. When he taught, you knew he was echoing God’s principles. I always respected his guidance. His reward in Heaven is great.

Steven

I listened to Dr. Dobson for many years during my early years as a mother. He helped shape my beliefs about marriage and child rearing. I valued his guidance as a second father figure as I was always learning from him. Thank you, God, for this precious soul that blessed so many people including me. May the family and friends celebrate his life and yet feel the comfort of the Holy Spirit during this time of mourning.

Kimberly

Dr. Dobson and Focus on the Family was a staple for us during the early years of child raising starting in 1981. His insights were a huge influence regarding the parenting of our two lovely adopted children, and then for our grandchildren starting in 2010. What an incredible blessing he has been to our family. A big thank you! How much fun it will be to see you again in heaven!

Donna

We lost a wonderful man and fine Christian who did not try to compromise the scriptures to satisfy the secular world. He will be missed because of his godly influence. What a tragic loss for his wife and children.

BERNARD

A “Warrior” for Christ, Dr. James Dobson will truly be missed. Thank you for the many recordings of Dr. Dobson’s teachings. They have and will continue to be a great source of encouragement and guidance, in family life, reminding mankind of the importance in walking with God Almighty. Whispering prayers of comfort for Dr. Dobson’s family … what a joy to know he is in the presence of God. We who remain behind, “can only imagine” the glories of our heavenly home … “look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near”.

Linda

In many ways, we were kindred spirits. Love for God and the truth of His Word drives KSBJ (Houston) and all of Hope Media Group to mirror the passion Dr. Dobson exuded for so many decades. His tireless work continues to have multi-generational impact in marriages, children, families, our culture, and ultimately in Heaven. Well done, well done. Dr. Dobson. Our prayers are for his family and closest ones left behind, but we also rejoice with them that he is now in the presence of the One he served with all his heart.

Joe

My husband and I want to express our heartfelt condolences to you all! What a loving example of a godly family! Dr. Dobson was such a great, wise, and godly man who inspired me on a daily basis to be a better wife, mother, and friend! Today, I am so grateful for his living legacy, as my husband and I pass on, and instill God’s teachings and Christian values to our five precious granddaughters! Dr. Dobson, I know that when you entered Heaven, God our Heavenly Father told you: Well done food and faithful servant! Shirley, Danae, Ryan, Laura, and grandchildren, may you feel the love and comfort of Jesus as he wraps His loving and compassionate arms around you all!

Sandy

I raised two boys on Dr. Dobson’s advice and care. I’m not sure we would have survived as well as we did without him!! May his legacy live on in every thriving child and marriage he has helped.

Jennifer

I have listened to Dr. James Dobson for over 30 years, raising my children with his teachings, truths and wisdom that emulate Jesus, which he did so well. I feel like I have lost family. I have so respected Dr. Dobson and his role as a godly husband, father, and friend to so many in the world, including me. He has been my mentor with his books, radio, and youtube videos. I pray more men will grab the baton and run with and live by the example Dr. Dobson led with; since he has now finished his race; without compromising his stand on the Word that he did so well. With tears of gratitude, appreciation, respect, and love.

Susan

Dr. Dobson was really a gift from God. He was father to generations, at a time when many homes had no father. He always spoke God’s Truth and Wisdom “in love.” So happy that he’s entered into His rest. Praying comfort and encouragement for Shirley and family, plus all of those who ate at his table. 🙏

Jeffrey

Forty years ago, I started listening to Dr. Dobson and Focus on the Family. I raised my children from his wise words and his parenting books. He has had a wonderful impact on me and I’m very grateful for him. My heart goes out to his family as they mourn the loss of him. Thank you for sharing him with the world. His life was a wonderful example of reflecting God’s image. Well done, faithful servant of God. You served your Lord all your life. Someday I will meet you in person as we celebrate life together in the presence of our Lord and Savior!

Marcia

Dr. Dobson has been a great influence in my life through his books and the radio and TV shows. He guided my beliefs on courtship, marriage, and how to raise children. I was particularly influenced by two books – ‘Love Must Be Tough’ and ‘Bringing Up Girls’. I feel like I met him through his works. He has fought the good fight and I pray for peace and comfort for Shirley and the whole family. We thank the Father for his life.

Grace

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