Phil Robertson, the patriarch of the Robertson family and star of the reality TV series Duck Dynasty, passed away on May 25, 2025, at the age of 79. His family announced his death on social media, expressing gratitude for his life and legacy. Robertson had been battling Alzheimer’s disease, which was diagnosed in December 2024, along with other health issues including a blood disorder and back pain.
Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, Phil Robertson grew up in modest circumstances, often recalling a childhood without modern amenities. He attended Louisiana Tech University, where he played football ahead of future NFL Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw. However, he chose to forgo a potential professional football career to pursue his passion for hunting. In 1972, he invented the Duck Commander duck call, leading to the establishment of the Duck Commander company in 1973. The business’s success eventually led to the creation of the A&E reality series Duck Dynasty, which aired from 2012 to 2017 and became a cultural phenomenon.
Robertson’s personal life was marked by transformation. After a tumultuous period in the 1970s, he underwent a religious conversion that profoundly influenced his life and work. He became a devout Christian and was known for his outspoken views on faith and conservative values. His family, including his wife Kay Robertson, whom he married in 1966, and their children, often shared in his public expressions of faith.
In the days leading up to his passing, Robertson’s health declined significantly. According to his daughter-in-law Korie Robertson, he became increasingly quiet, speaking very little. Despite his condition, he remained surrounded by his loving family. His granddaughter, Sadie Robertson, shared that one of his final messages to her was the encouraging phrase, “Full strength ahead!”
The Robertson family plans to hold a private service for Phil, followed by a public celebration of his life. His legacy continues through the upcoming series Duck Dynasty: The Revival, set to premiere on June 1, 2025, on A&E. The new series will focus on the next generation of the Robertson family, highlighting their ongoing commitment to faith, family, and tradition.
Phil Robertson’s life journey from humble beginnings to national fame, coupled with his unwavering faith, left an indelible mark on his family and fans alike. His story is a testament to transformation, resilience, and the enduring power of faith and family.
