James Dobson, a Christian psychologist and longtime pro-family advocate who advised numerous US presidents’ administrations, died Aug. 21 at age 89 following a brief illness.
“Dr. Dobson’s unwavering faith and tireless devotion to the family shaped generations,” the organization Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk said in the Facebook post announcing his passing. “For nearly five decades, his voice championed life, marriage, and the truth of God’s Word.”
“As we grieve, we also give thanks — for his life, his legacy, and the mission that lives on through the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute,” it added. “We invite you to join us in prayer and in carrying this mission forward.”
Dobson was an author of more than 70 books, a psychologist, a Radio Hall of Fame broadcaster, and an adviser to five US presidents regarding juvenile justice, child welfare, and family policy, according to a press release from the organization.
“He was instrumental in shaping national conversations around pornography, gambling, teen pregnancy prevention, and the sanctity of human life,” the release noted.
In 2016, Dobson also served on President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board, according to The Hill.
Dobson founded the faith-based organization Focus on the Family in 1977 and hosted a daily broadcast that was promoted by more than 4,000 radio stations across North America and translated into 27 languages, in more than 160 countries, according to the release. In 2010, he departed from Focus on the Family and began the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute and the radio broadcast Family Talk, which counseled families. More than 1,500 radio outlets broadcast Family Talk and more than half a million listeners tuned in, according to the release.
“Dr. Dobson’s voice not only influenced policy but also gave hope to millions seeking practical, faith-based wisdom for their homes,” the release states. “His legacy lives on through the innumerable families he inspired to build their lives on the foundation of Scripture.”
Dobson is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirly, and their two children and two grandchildren.
Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at the institute, described Dobson as “a pioneer” and a “man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family and culture.”
“His bold leadership, integrity, and compassion helped equip countless families to thrive in a world of shifting values,” Bauer said. “He was a mentor, a counselor, and a steady voice of truth in turbulent times.”
Jim Daly, president of Focus on the Family, said in a statement about Dobson’s passing that he is “thankful for his sensitivity to those who were weak, downtrodden, and sometimes overlooked.”
Daly shared that he once told Dobson about a family he met who had lost their 4-year-old son to lymphoma after a hard battle and intense prayer for God’s intervention. According to Daly, Dobson’s eyes filled with tears, and he said that that is “one of the most devastating experiences a human being can suffer.” Dobson later penned the book, When God Doesn’t Make Sense.
“Perhaps that book grew from Dr. Dobson’s emotional connection to families who suffer inexplicable tragedies,” Daly said. “He heard many stories of family trauma through the years, and he grieved for each one. He never lost his heart for those who weep.”
“Now, it is our turn to weep,” Daly said. “He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and a friend to millions of listeners and readers around the world.”
Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, likewise praised Dobson’s legacy.
“Few people have had the positive, Christ-honoring impact upon the family as Dr. Jim Dobson,” Perkins said in an Aug. 21 emailed press release.
Perkins said his parents applied his instructions in forming their family’s faith, and he said it was a privilege to work with Dobson to protect marriage and family values.
“In every sphere in which he engaged — as an author, psychologist, teacher, policy expert and national leader — he served the cause of Christ and proclaimed God’s faithfulness to His people,” Perkins remarked. “He brought to public policy a new focus on the timelessness of family.”
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