Phil Robertson, Iconic ‘Duck Dynasty’ Patriarch, Dies at 79 After Battle with Alzheimer’s

Phil Robertson, the legendary bearded patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family and a man known as much for his unshakable faith as his rugged frontier spirit, has passed away at the age of 79. The news broke on May 25, 2025, as his heartbroken family took to social media to share the loss of the man they revered not only as their spiritual guide, but as the cornerstone of their lives.

Robertson, who became a cultural phenomenon through his unapologetic beliefs and backwoods wisdom, died after a long and difficult battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Fans around the world mourned the passing of a man who never shied away from controversy, yet inspired millions with his outspoken Christianity and deep devotion to family.

A Legacy of Faith and Family

In a poignant statement posted to Phil’s official Instagram account, the Robertson family honored his memory:

“We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord. He reminded us often of the words of Paul, ‘you do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.’”

They went on to thank the public for their prayers and support, reflecting on the impact Phil’s unwavering faith and powerful testimony had on those who followed his journey:

“We will carry on his legacy of loving God and others.”

Phil Robertson leaves behind more than a hit reality show—he leaves a powerful legacy of faith, family, and fearless conviction.

Phil Robertson, ‘Duck Dynasty’ Patriarch and Faith-Driven Icon, Dies at 79

Phil Robertson, the indomitable, bearded patriarch of Duck Dynasty and the founder of Duck Commander, passed away on May 25, 2025, at the age of 79 after a challenging battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Revered by millions for his bold faith, backwoods grit, and unapologetic views, Robertson’s death has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, followers, and fans across the globe.

Known for turning duck calls into a multi-million-dollar brand and his family into reality TV royalty, Phil’s larger-than-life presence wasn’t just confined to the screen. He was a spiritual compass for his loved ones and a lightning rod in America’s cultural conversation.

A Family’s Grief, Anchored in Faith

The Robertson family confirmed Phil’s passing in a deeply heartfelt statement posted to his official Instagram account:

“We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord. He reminded us often of the words of Paul, ‘you do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.’”

They thanked supporters for their prayers and pledged to carry forward his legacy of unwavering faith and love:

“We will carry on his legacy of loving God and others.”

Phil’s son, Jase Robertson, echoed those sentiments in a moving post on X (formerly Twitter):

“My dad has gone to be with the Lord today! He will be missed but we know he is in good hands, and our family is good because God is very good! We will see him again!”

Final Words, Lasting Impact

Granddaughter Sadie Robertson Huff shared one of the final moments she had with her grandfather:

“One of the last things he said to me was ‘full strength ahead!’ Amen! Now he is experiencing it in the fullness. Fully alive in Christ. The new has come.”

Grandson Will Robertson posted a childhood photo and a simple, powerful tribute:

“My Papaw Phil went home to the Lord today. His life, his testimony, and his devotion to God was so powerful. I’m forever grateful for his time spent on earth, and I’m thankful to know he’s sitting in his recliner talking to Jesus. Love you, Papaw ”

Korie Robertson, Phil’s daughter-in-law and wife of Willie Robertson, also reflected on his lasting influence:

“Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus.”

A Tough Diagnosis, A Tower of Strength

The family first revealed Phil’s declining health in December 2024. On the Unashamed with the Robertson Family podcast, Jase opened up about Phil’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and other complications doctors suspected, including a blood disorder:

“It’s accelerated and it’s causing problems with his entire body… He’s just not doing well. He’s really struggling.”

Yet, even as his health deteriorated, Phil remained the steady foundation of the family — faithful, fearless, and unshaken.

From Bayous to Fame: The Rise of a Cultural Phenomenon

Phil Robertson’s journey from humble hunter to cultural icon began in 1972, when he invented the Duck Commander duck call. Designed to sound like a real duck, it revolutionized hunting and laid the foundation for a booming family business.

But it was the 2012 debut of Duck Dynasty on A&E that catapulted the Robertson family into the national spotlight. The show, which chronicled their lives in Louisiana, ran for 11 seasons and turned Phil into a reality TV legend. With his long beard, camo attire, and Bible in hand, he became a symbol of old-school values in a rapidly shifting culture.

Controversy and Conviction

Phil’s outspoken nature also brought firestorms of controversy. In a 2013 interview with GQ, his blunt comments about homosexuality and sin sparked national outrage:

“It seems like, to me, a v-gina—as a man—would be more desirable than a man’s a–… Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there.”

A&E suspended him briefly, but intense backlash from fans and conservative supporters led to his swift reinstatement. To many, Phil’s defiance of cancel culture only strengthened his status as a symbol of Christian conservatism — a man who would not bend.

A Legacy Beyond the Limelight

Though Duck Dynasty ended in 2017, its cultural footprint endured. The family launched books, spinoffs like Jep & Jessica: Growing the Dynasty and At Home with the Robertsons, and even a hit holiday album, Duck the Halls.

Most recently, the Robertsons announced a reboot — Duck Dynasty: The Revival — set to premiere June 1, 2025, with Willie, Korie, and the next generation in the spotlight. Phil’s death now casts uncertainty over the series launch, but his imprint on the show — and on his family — is indelible.

Before Phil’s passing, Willie told Us Weekly:

“I never thought we’d do this again. But I realized people wanted to see what we’re doing.”

Fans Mourn, Nation Reflects

In the wake of Phil’s passing, tributes poured in from admirers and critics alike.

“You will be remembered,” one fan wrote.
“Don’t agree with his politics, but happy he is at peace,” another added.

Phil Robertson leaves behind more than just a hit show. He leaves a legacy shaped by raw conviction, enduring faith, and the complex imprint of a man who lived boldly, spoke his truth — and never backed down.

Love him or loathe him, Phil Robertson was impossible to ignore — a man whose voice echoed far beyond the bayous of Louisiana. As his family says their final goodbye, they hold fast to the one thing he treasured above all: the hope found in Christ, and the unshakable promise of eternal life.