Phil Robertson, Duck Dynasty Star, Passes Away at 79 After Alzheimer’s Battle
Phil Robertson, the beloved patriarch of the Robertson family, has passed away at the age of 79, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. The sad news was confirmed by his family on Sunday, May 25, as they mourn the loss of a man who had an indelible impact on their lives and the lives of millions of fans around the world.
The announcement came several months after the Robertson family had publicly revealed in December 2024 that Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive and degenerative condition that impairs memory and cognitive function. The diagnosis came as a shock to many, as Phil had been a towering figure in the world of reality television, known for his strong faith, his role as the founder of Duck Commander, and his deeply-rooted connections with his family.
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Phil’s son, Jase Robertson, shared an emotional tribute on social media, writing, “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!” Jase’s heartfelt words reflected the strength of the family’s faith and their unwavering belief that Phil is now at peace with the Lord.
Granddaughter Sadie Robertson Huff also paid tribute to her grandfather on Instagram, sharing a series of photos of their famous family, accompanied by an emotional caption reflecting on the profound impact Phil had on her life. “Love you forever, Papaw,” she wrote.
Phil’s son, Willie Robertson, and his wife Korie Robertson also posted a joint statement on Instagram, writing, “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord. Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life. We know so many of you love him and have been impacted by his life.”
The family continued, saying, “We’re having a private service for now, but we’ll share details soon about a public celebration of his life.” The outpouring of love and support from fans across the world has been a testament to the deep affection people had for Phil and his legacy.
Phil Robertson’s Alzheimer’s Journey
Phil Robertson’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis was first shared with the public on the December 6 episode of the Unashamed with the Robertson Family podcast. At the time, Jase revealed that his father was in the early stages of the disease, noting that it had rapidly progressed, causing significant physical and cognitive challenges. Despite these struggles, the family continued to provide him with the best care and comfort, as they adjusted to the difficult realities of living with a loved one facing such a debilitating condition.
In a later update in April 2025, Jase spoke more about his father’s ongoing health struggles, stating, “He’s just not doing well. He’s really struggling.” Yet, in true Robertson fashion, the family made it clear that they were committed to making Phil as comfortable as possible, offering him their unwavering love and support during this challenging time.
Legacy of the Robertson Family and Duck Dynasty
Phil Robertson’s passing marks the end of an era for the Robertson family and their fans. Duck Dynasty, the hit A&E reality series that followed the daily lives of the Robertson family, brought their down-to-earth charm and larger-than-life personalities to the small screen for 11 seasons. The show ended in 2017, but it remains one of the most iconic reality TV shows of all time, thanks to its portrayal of a family that not only built a successful business with Duck Commander, but also embraced faith, humor, and an undeniable bond.
Phil, a Louisiana native and a self-made entrepreneur, founded Duck Commander in 1972. His now-patented duck call became an essential tool for hunters, and the success of Duck Commander ultimately turned the Robertson family into a household name. His deep faith, straightforward wisdom, and no-nonsense attitude made him a beloved figure, not just on television, but in the hearts of fans everywhere.
Since the show ended, the Robertson family has remained active in various endeavors, including the launch of Duck Dynasty: The Revival, a new series set to return to A&E. Even with the success of their business and television ventures, however, Phil’s greatest pride was always his family. He married his wife, Kay, when she was 17, and together they built a legacy of love, faith, and family values that resonated deeply with millions of viewers.
A Final Tribute to Phil Robertson
Phil Robertson leaves behind a powerful legacy, not just as a television star, but as a man who lived life with conviction, humility, and love. He will be remembered not only for his role as a patriarch on Duck Dynasty, but for his impact on the lives of those who knew him personally and those who watched him on television. The Robertson family has lost a pillar of strength, but his memory will live on through his family and the countless people who were touched by his story.
As fans and family members come together to honor Phil’s life, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. Phil’s journey was not just one of fame, but of authenticity, family, and faith—a journey that will forever be remembered and cherished by those who knew him best.