A focused life – what an impact. Glory be to God!
victor
Tributes
We invite you to celebrate the life of Dr. James C. Dobson by sharing your thoughts and memories here.
Add A Tribute
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 so grateful for Dr. Dobson’s life and for his legacy! I began listening to Focus on the Family in 1992 on the way to work when I had 3 little children (ages 6, 4, and 3). I was so excited every day to hear the program. I learned so much about raising my kids on Christ-centered values, and I needed every bit of marriage advice he provided. I’ve always shared Dr. Dobson’s insights, advice, books, and resources with family, friends, and co-workers – they are so valuable. Thank you again, Dr. Dobson, for helping me to become a better mother, a better wife, and a better friend. You will be missed! May God comfort Shirley and family, and fill them with his peace.
Sonia
It is a very sad time to have to say goodbye to someone I have listened to for over 30 years. From the time I got married until just a few weeks ago, Dr. Dobson has been a caring, knowledgeable, influential voice in my life. Even though I accepted the Lord at such a young age, no one in my family was saved, and years later I married an unbeliever. Were it not for discovering and listening to Dr. Dobson, first at Focus on the Family then at Family Talk, I would not still be married to a Christian (now) and have raised three children. His wisdom, advice (through his books), and wonderful guests through the years have all formed this now conservative and educated woman – educated in the way of being aware of the clash of the culture and my beliefs, but as of now I am firm. Dr. Dobson has helped me grow, mature, keep learning, and above all to keep striving toward the goal of maturity and communion with Christ. May I be found faithful, and I hope to one day meet him in Paradise where we can rejoice in the Lord together.
Teresa
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
Showing Slide 1 of 21