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 am still stunned by hearing of Dr Dobson’s death. I raised my children and grandchildren on his advice and common sense. My thoughts are with you, Shirley, as I know the pain of losing a husband. I pray that God gives you the strength to endure the days ahead. Love, your sister in Christ, Jean

Jean

My best time after moving from Texas to California with a very young family was listening to Focus on the Family with Dr. Dobson. It helped me get through such a difficult time trying to acclimate to a new region so different from my roots. I listened so long to his program, I heard all of the growth phases of Ryan and Danae that Dr. Dobson would share – specific details of growth phases in his children’s lives that helped me to understand my role as a parent. When he introduced Gary Bauer and shared how politics has a place for us in the Christian walk, I learned it was okay. I heard the hope of the National Day of Prayer and interviewed Shirley often. I saw the soul-moving presentations he would have in theatre-like style; the most meaningful to me was about the mother who, in a dream, met the child she had aborted. It touched my heart so deeply since I was a mother who aborted one of her pregnancies. Then he gave the explanation for leaving California and relocating the ministry in Colorado Springs. I hung onto every word, every program, and every event for 10 years. My daily drive to work took over 30 minutes. I would listen to Dr. John MacArthur first. Then Focus on the Family would come on. You feel part of a greater family, a FAMILY, who has had such tremendous homegoings! I’m so at peace and excited to know that “Homecomings” are part of everyday life, offering reminders to look up and know our redemption is near! My heart is full. My mother passed at 89 years, too, 2 years ago. I hope she meets one of her favorites, too, now there in heaven!

Dana

We send our heartfelt condolences to Shirley, Danae, and Ryan and his family, and have been praying for you. Dr. Dobson encouraged and inspired us to raise our children to know the Lord, and Focus on the Family impacted our family greatly through the various magazines such as Plugged In, Brio, Clubhouse, Clubhouse Jr., as well as Dr. Dobson’s books. Furthermore, we served in family and marriage ministry in various capacities and were influenced by the broadcasts and materials provided through Focus on the Family. We visited this great ministry while in Colorado for a wedding because of its impact on our lives. We are so grateful for the Dobson family and for the lasting impact of the ministries you served in so faithfully, as they blessed us eternally. We are so thankful for Dr. Dobson and for all of you, and we grieve over your loss, but with the truth and hope of life eternal. What an amazing impact you all have had as you shared Dr. James Dobson with us. We are so grateful. Carolyn

Carolyn

I’m so thankful to God for His work through the life of Dr. Dobson! I have listened to him since he began his radio ministry. I am grateful for the wisdom that I’ve gained. My parents didn’t grow up in Christian homes, but came to know Christ when I was a young teen. Consequently, I had so much to learn about the family and how healthy ones functioned. Dr. Dobson was a valuable resource to me. His insight and the wisdom of his guests were a great support to me. Thank you, Dr. Dobson! I look forward to meeting you on the other side ❤️.

Lora

Corrie Ten Boom had lots of stories, and one I remember quite well compares our life journey to a train ride. We start our journey with just our parents, but along the way others join us for the ride – friends, spouses, children, and grandchildren. Yes, brothers, too. If we live long enough, the train starts losing passengers. Parents are the first to get off, but that’s only the beginning. The train keeps moving, and bosses, friends, and yes, even spouses and children get off, too. I lost a friend this week who was also a great boss. I have had some really good bosses and mentors on this close to 84-year-old train ride, and that has been a blessing. Dr. James Dobson was truly unique. I am happy to report that recently, and upon the 15th year of his new ministry, I had the opportunity to tell Jim just how special he was to me. On the occasion of his death this week, I would like to share this note with you as my humble tribute to a great Christian leader, a friend, a boss, and mentor. I can still hear him say, “Andy, we married way above our category.” Indeed, we did. Please pray for Shirley Dobson as she deals with the loss of her best friend and soulmate. Dr. Dobson, I know that you will receive multitudes of notes from constituents who love and appreciate you for the help you provided with their marriages and young children as they were growing up. I know my dearly departed wife, Judy, would write that. Every time I ask people if they know Dr. James Dobson, those are the stories I hear, and they usually say to please tell the doctor how much we love him for what he did for us – my current wife, Susie, included. My story is a bit different as I had the privilege of working for you at Focus on the Family when you came to CO Springs from California. I always tell people that the doctor is just exactly like the person you hear on the radio – a man of integrity, a real leader, and a great boss. I loved the way you would assemble your staff and ask us to read your newsletters before they were sent out. You really cared what each of us felt about your work and wanted it to be perfect -first in detail, and then in overall context. I also loved your “Hot Pendings,” which usually resulted from some input you received from a constituent. You wanted to know what was happening in your organization, and you wanted to make sure that the response was timely and not forgotten. I loved to receive your Hot Pendings, Doctor, because it was my opportunity to interact directly with you and help you understand the financial end of the business. Finally, a word about integrity. We were together, and you were addressing a meeting of big donors at Elk Canyon in Montana. There was no need whatsoever for you to mention our participation in the New Era scheme, but you said, “Andy told us it was a mistake, and we should have listened to him.” What kind of leader would do that? I know of only one. I was proud to serve you at Focus and happy to support your work now. We thank God that you have been faithful and continue to be faithful to serve Him and families all over the world. With gratitude and best regards, Andy Anderson (and Susie, too)

Andy and Susie

I will miss Dr. Dobson. In the ’80s, I was changing the radio setting while driving down the freeway in my convertible bug, and on came your voice interviewing someone about God. I was intrigued. I didn’t know your name or the name of your show; thus, I could never find you again . . . until ten years later. After my third child was born, I was introduced to Jesus Christ through a friend. We moved to Florida, and I began to homeschool my children. I found you on the radio once again. I would make lunch for my children, and then I would go to the corner of my kitchen and listen to you. We had an ADHD child, and you would have many conversations about how to love and care for children who struggle with this. You talked about homeschooling and how it was important to teach our children about God. You talked about marriage, and that kept my perspective towards heaven. We eventually moved to Las Vegas; I know, eeww. This is where God brought us to be bold in our faith, and this is where my daughter told me she was gay. I called your ministry and asked for prayer and everything I could read about the subject. I received, without cost, a book and a CD. Many years later, my children have all grown up. My dad passed, and I spend time with my mom, telling her about Christ’s goodness. I introduced her to your podcasts, and together we listen. She is 91 years old, and she really likes you . . . I knew she would. My husband and I have been married for 41 years, and we are still happy. I am at the end of my working career, and every day during my lunch hour I sit alone outside in the courtyard to listen to your podcast. Many times you re-air old interviews, and I can remember where I was when I first heard them . . . in the corner of my kitchen. I am now a Nonna and a mother-in-law. I share your books with my daughter, who is no longer living the gay lifestyle. She is married with one child. Thank you, Mrs. Dobson, for making Dr. Dobson a happy man. I love you, Dr. Dobson. I’ll see you one day.

Linda

Thank you, Dr. James Dobson and family, for all you stood up for in this country and in the Lord. I appreciate it very much. I am praying for your family. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1). “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (I Pet. 5:7). I love you.

Melody

I first discovered the golden, wise voice of Dr. James Dobson on the radio some 40 years ago. I have read most of his books but found “Love Must Be Tough” to be especially helpful as a young man. There’s no doubt he will be missed, and his love for Jesus and the family was modeled oh so well. I am thankful. His love of country was also an inspiration to me to be involved, for which I also am grateful. I am praying for Shirley, Danae, and Ryan.

GARTH

Just when I felt desperate as a young 20-year-old mom, I was invited to a Bible study by a neighbor. They were using a pamphlet on child rearing by Dr. Dobson in 1980. It was packed with proverbs from the Bible, and we studied the blend of love and discipline. I decided to follow the principles and listen to the radio shows, switching off soap operas forever. My daughters turned out to be fine women, wives, and mothers, largely due to God’s timing and Dr. Dobson’s guidance. We are forever grateful. My husband is still here too, thanks, in part, to something I heard on the radio. You may have made a mistake marrying the person you did. But, now that you are married, it is no longer a mistake; it is your calling and your future. God has been using my marriage to develop humility in me. I am so glad I never gave up, and so are my kids.

Kaydee

When I learned of Dr. Dobson’s passing, I was shocked and saddened to have lost such a wonderful man of God. He has inspired me in my adult life, providing so much guidance and wisdom for my marriage and especially for raising my children in such a difficult culture. I have listened to his voice first on Focus on the Family, then on Family Talk. I always admired his strong faith and conviction. He never wavered in teaching and living out God’s principles. I will miss his honest perspective, but thankfully he lives on through radio, podcasts, and his many amazing books.

Dianne

I have listened to Dr. Dobson since 1987 when I got saved. Because God allowed me to be exposed to his programing and books, I can say my marriage was saved, and I learned how to raise our four kids. I give God all the glory for Dr. Dobson’s place in our lives. Though I never met him, I felt such a great loss when I received the news. Thank you, Mrs. Dobson, Ryan, and Danae, for sharing your husband and father with my family and many others that he has touched. Betty and I will continue to pray for y’all as you go through this trying time. Sincerely, Louis LeBlanc Geismar, Louisiana

Louis

I followed his ministry for years. The priceless knowledge gained from his books, teachings, videos, and radio broadcasts through the years have helped me raise my children and negotiate life. His legacy will forever impact generations to come. My condolences and prayers are with his family.

Reatha

I was saddened to learn of Dr. Dobson’s passing. As do millions, my wife and I credit him with so much of what we learned about marriage, children, and family, especially in the early years of our marriage when there was very little out there by comparison to today. He was fearless and bold in standing up for the faith, and I will cherish the time we had with him.

Karlos

I will miss him. Just knowing someone of high quality has been wonderful in this crazy world. Dr. Dobson helped me when I first became a Christian. He taught me about how to be a better mom, wife, and friend. God was evident in his life, not just because he was a public figure but because his heart loved Jesus. I’m sad we don’t have him here in flesh and blood, but he left such a legacy – so many recordings and books that will always be available for us. Thank you, Dr. Dobson, for a life “well lived.” I’m praying for comfort for the Dobson family. As Christians, we know where he is, but missing him is a reality. Blessings abundantly, Dobson family, and thank you for sharing this very good man.

Nita

Love reading all the tributes on this page and on Facebook. I agree with all of them. I love the ones that say Dr. Dobson and Chuck Swindoll helped raise their families. So true. I became an elementary school counselor and recommended Dr. Dobson’s books all the time (and showed “Veggie Tales” too)! Shirley, we all feel your loss. Your family became our family. He will be so missed. Focus on the Family is his legacy and will be for years to come . . . what a legacy! Continued prayers for you and your family. Annette

Annette

Such a great speaker and man! I have listened to him for years, and he’s always been an inspiration! Many thanks to him for his tireless fight against abortion. I know his family will miss him dearly but will be reunited in Heaven! God bless you all.

Rhonda

Dr. Dobson has had a huge impact on my life. His book “Life on the Edge” helped prepare me for marriage and a career, which happened at the same time. I have been married for 24 years now. I attribute the success of my marriage and family to the biblical principles that he wrote about and spoke about on his daily broadcasts. He will be greatly missed.

James

I was heartbroken to hear the news that Dr. James Dobson had left this earth and gone on to his reward with Jesus. It is difficult to lose such an influential man in a world that is so set against our Judeo-Christian heritage. I remember listening to Focus on the Family and learning so much from his programs when I first got saved. And my children loved listening to “Adventures In Odyssey.” He has touched millions of lives for the gospel, and I thank God for him and his unwavering faith to live out the truth. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to his family. I pray that God will comfort them. I look forward to the day when we will see him in heaven with Jesus.

Jason

As immigrants, our family had a rocky time adjusting to life in the US. As a child, the feeling of not fitting in exacerbated the feelings of loneliness, marginalization, and backwardness. In a culture of strong-voiced, charismatic male personas, Dr. Dobson was not that! He was a gentle, wise, kindhearted, and knowledgeable counselor who offered sound discussions about difficult problems in life that gave audiences this feeling: “by God’s grace, we can make it through this.” When I sat down in quiet evenings to do my homework, I’d turn on the radio and listen to Focus on the Family, and I’d get fatherly wisdom and insight from someone who explained why my life seemed like such a struggle, and he provided biblically sound advice on how to persevere, take heart, be courageous, and aspire for the best that God would bring about in the midst of life circumstances that were meant to train me for my good and His glory. I eventually went to school for a term at his Focus on the Family Institute, which enlarged my mind and provided me a world of mentors and friendships. HQ in CS is a special place. That experience set the vision and trajectory of my urban ministry work today. Focus on the Family is an organizational collaboration of many wonderful believers who shared his vision. We all touch a life, and each person there followed his leadership to do so in the love of Jesus, with wisdom, zeal, and joy. Thank you, Dr. Dobson.

Tony

When I first became a Christian 57 years ago, I learned of Dr. James Dobson’s ministry. His common-sense knowledge surrounding the family and raising children inspired me to get an education in psychology, to help others where I could. As a student of “human behavior,” I was fascinated by his insight. I would say, as have millions of others, that you truly have been a great teacher and mentor. You have given us tools that have helped us in this journey called “life.” Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You are now truly receiving your well-earned rewards. One day we will meet again.

Rebecca