Liberty mourns the loss of Christian leader, author, and family expert Dr. James C. Dobson

Dr. James C. Dobson, one of the most influential Christian leaders in the last 50 years and a longtime friend of Liberty University, died Thursday morning at the age of 89.

As a world-renowned psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, Radio Hall of Fame broadcaster, and advisor to five U.S. presidents, Dobson dedicated his life to strengthening marriages, guiding parents, and defending biblical values by championing the central role of family in America.

“Dr. James Dobson’s unwavering commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, strengthening families, upholding biblical values, and advancing public policies that protect marriage, family, and the sanctity of life has left an eternal impact on this nation and the world,” said Liberty Chancellor Jonathan Falwell. “He was a close personal friend of my father and a friend of Liberty University for decades. His legacy and Christlike example continue to inspire and shape countless leaders at Liberty as we train Champions for Christ who will change the world.”

Dobson was the keynote speaker at Liberty’s Commencement in May 1993. In introducing him, Liberty founder Dr. Jerry Falwell described Dobson as “the leading voice for the family in today’s society worldwide” and presented him with an honorary doctorate.

In 2016, Dobson partnered with Liberty to launch the James C. Dobson Center for Child Development, Marriage, & Family Studies within the university’s Department of Counselor Education & Family Studies online programs. The goal of the center is to equip men and women with the knowledge and training they need to influence families and society for Christ. The center offers several master’s degrees or bachelor’s degree minors. Video lectures taught by Dobson and other counseling professionals and are used in the course curriculum.

Dobson also spoke in Convocation in 2016, where he discussed the topic of legacy and what is left behind when one passes away.

“What will matter most in that moment is who you loved, who loved you, and what you did together in the service of the Lord,” he said. “There’s nothing else that will stand the test of time.”

Dr. Troy Temple, dean of the John W. Rawlings School of Divinity, called Dobson “more than a scholar and broadcaster — he was a spiritual father to generations. His legacy is etched into the hearts of those who seek to build homes on the foundation of Scripture. Liberty University is humbled to carry forward his vision through our academic programs and ministry training.”

Born in 1936 in Shreveport, La., Dobson founded Focus on the Family in 1977, creating one of the largest faith-based organizations in the world. His daily broadcasts were heard on over 4,000 radio stations across North America and translated into 27 languages in more than 160 countries. Following his departure from Focus on the Family in 2010, Dr. Dobson launched the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, continuing his mission through “Family Talk,” a nationally syndicated radio broadcast offering timeless counsel for today’s families.

Dobson authored more than 70 books dedicated to the preservation of the family. Dobson also played key roles in presidential commissions, with appointments by Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. He was instrumental in shaping national conversations around pornography, gambling, teen pregnancy prevention, and the sanctity of human life, and he served on President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley; their children, Danae and Ryan; daughter-in-law Laura; and two beloved grandchildren.

Read the full obituary and tributes on The James Dobson Family Institute and Focus on the Family websites.