| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Phil Alexander Robertson |
| Date of Birth | April 24, 1946 |
| Date of Death | May 25, 2025 |
| Age at Death | 79 |
| Hometown | Vivian, Louisiana, USA |
| Profession | TV Personality, Hunter, Entrepreneur, Preacher |
| Known For | Duck Dynasty, Founder of Duck Commander |
| Spouse | Kay Robertson |
| Children | 5, including Willie, Jase, Jep, and daughter Phyllis |
| Cause of Death | Complications from Alzheimer’s Disease |
| Notable Work | Duck Dynasty, Duck Commander, Unashamed podcast |
Phil Robertson Obituary – A Life Rooted in Faith, Family, and Southern Tradition
The world lost a beloved television star, devoted family man, and outspoken Christian leader with the passing of Phil Robertson, who died at the age of 79 on May 25, 2025. Known to millions as the bearded patriarch from A&E’s hit reality show Duck Dynasty, Phil was much more than a TV personality. He was a man of conviction, an innovator in the hunting industry, and a spiritual beacon to countless fans across the world.
A Humble Beginning in Louisiana
Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, Phil Robertson came from humble roots. Raised in the rural South, he developed a deep appreciation for nature, hunting, and the simplicity of country life. These early influences would go on to shape not only his personal philosophy but also a multimillion-dollar brand that would become synonymous with outdoor living.
Phil attended Louisiana Tech University on a football scholarship, even playing ahead of future NFL Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw. But rather than pursue a professional football career, Phil chose a quieter life closer to his passions — hunting, fishing, and family.
The Birth of Duck Commander
In 1972, Phil created the Duck Commander duck call in a small shop in West Monroe, Louisiana. What began as a modest business quickly grew into an empire. The now-patented duck call became a favorite among hunters, and the company evolved into one of the most recognizable brands in outdoor gear.
As the business expanded, Phil brought in his sons and other family members, instilling in them not just the mechanics of the trade, but also the importance of faith and family. His vision culminated in the brand’s wild success, which would eventually capture the attention of national television networks.
Reality TV Stardom: Duck Dynasty
When Duck Dynasty premiered in 2012 on A&E, audiences were captivated by the Robertson family’s unique mix of humor, hunting, and heartfelt values. Phil, with his long beard, slow Southern drawl, and deep-rooted Christian beliefs, stood out as the family’s spiritual and philosophical leader.
The show ran for 11 seasons and ended in 2017, becoming one of the most-watched reality series in television history. Millions of fans tuned in not just for the laughs and duck calls, but for the love and unity the Robertsons displayed in every episode. Phil’s frequent dinner table prayers became a hallmark of the show.
A Faith-Led Life
Phil’s faith was the cornerstone of his identity. A born-again Christian, he devoted his later years to evangelism and ministry. Through his “Unashamed” podcast with sons Jase and Al Robertson, Phil spread messages of faith, redemption, and the transformative power of the Gospel.
His bold voice resonated across America, where he became known not only for his duck calls but for calling people to a higher spiritual purpose. Even in his final days, faith remained at the forefront of his journey.
Family and Personal Legacy
Phil married his high school sweetheart, Kay Robertson, when she was just 17, after learning she was pregnant with their first son. The couple weathered numerous challenges in the early years of their marriage, but their faith and commitment carried them through.
Together, they raised five children, including the surprise revelation in later years of his daughter Phyllis, whom he discovered from a past relationship. The news was shared publicly and warmly embraced, reflecting Phil’s belief in forgiveness and the redemptive love of family.
Phil’s family, including sons Willie, Jase, and Jep, became household names themselves, each playing pivotal roles in both the family business and the hit show.
Battle with Alzheimer’s Disease
In December 2024, the Robertson family publicly announced that Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The news came during an episode of their Unashamed podcast, where Jase shared that his father’s condition was progressing and beginning to affect his body and memory.
The journey through the disease was difficult, but Phil’s faith never wavered. Surrounded by his loving wife, children, and grandchildren, Phil remained committed to spreading hope and light until the very end.
On May 25, 2025, Phil passed away peacefully, a moment his family described as a homecoming to the Lord. His daughter-in-law Korie Robertson shared the heartfelt news on Facebook, expressing the family’s peace in knowing he was now with God.
FAQs about Phil Robertson
Q1: How did Phil Robertson die?
Phil Robertson died due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease, which he was diagnosed with in late 2024.
Q2: How old was Phil Robertson at the time of his death?
He was 79 years old when he passed away on May 25, 2025.
Q3: Who were Phil Robertson’s children?
Phil and Kay Robertson had five children, including Willie, Jase, Jep, and later welcomed daughter Phyllis, whom Phil discovered later in life.
Q4: What was Phil Robertson known for?
He was best known as the founder of Duck Commander, the star of Duck Dynasty, and a Christian evangelist through his podcast Unashamed.
Q5: Will there be a public memorial service?
The Robertson family is currently planning a private service, with public celebration details to be announced soon.
Conclusion: Honoring a Life of Purpose and Passion
Phil Robertson’s life was anything but ordinary. From his humble roots in rural Louisiana to becoming a national TV star and spiritual leader, Phil lived with integrity, purpose, and unwavering faith. His legacy stretches far beyond television screens — it lives on in the countless people he inspired with his story, his boldness in preaching the Gospel, and his commitment to faith and family.
As the world mourns his passing, we are reminded that true greatness lies not in fame or fortune, but in how deeply we love, how faithfully we serve, and how boldly we live our convictions. Phil Robertson did all this and more.
May his life continue to inspire generations to come.