Phil Robertson, the patriarch of the Robertson clan, died at 79. He was the creator of the honkin’ toys — and the founder of Duck Commander. His family shared the news, stating that he died at home with his loved ones by his side. Robertson was ultimately diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He grappled with sickle cell, a blood disease that caused painful complications.
Robertson first shot to international fame as the face of Duck Dynasty, a reality TV show that ran from 2012 to 2017. The show portrayed the wholesome, fun-loving day-to-day lives of the Robertson family. It helped promote their family-owned company, Duck Commander, which manufactures duck calls and other hunting equipment. Robertson’s son, Willie Robertson, shared the heartbreaking news of his father’s passing on Instagram, expressing a deep sense of loss yet comfort in his father’s faith.
In a heartfelt statement, the family said, “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord.” They emphasized their belief in eternal life through faith, quoting Paul in their message: “do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we declare that Jesus died and rose again. So we have to hope that with Jesus God will bring to life those who died having placed their ultimate trust in him.
Phil Robertson’s journey was not without controversy. He drew national criticism in 2013 for remarks he made during an interview with GQ magazine about homosexuality. The ensuing backlash resulted in his temporary suspension from “Duck Dynasty.” With unusual speed, A&E backtracked just days later in stunning fashion, due to the tsunami of public support behind Robertson.
Robertson has four sons, Jase, Willie, Jep and Al, with his wife Kay Robertson. He had an adult daughter named Phyllis from an extramarital relationship. His legacy lives on through his family, most notably through Duck Commander, the company he started in 1972. The company manufactures a wide variety of hunting-related merchandise that has come to fully represent the unique lifestyle of the Robertson family.
When as his health floundered in later years, the Smith family wanted to keep him close and ensure his ease and care. A family member noted the challenges they faced: “We’re trying to do a lot of things to figure out how to make him more comfortable, and maybe help with his memory… there’s no curing what he has.”
Phil Robertson’s influence didn’t stop with reality television. He was a leading voice for those in the Christian community. Jase Robertson expressed the family’s peace in their faith, stating, “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!”
The reality series Duck Dynasty introduced millions of Americans not only to the family’s profitable business but his family’s personal life and deeply held conservative Christian values. Following its success, fans can look forward to a new series titled “Duck Dynasty: The Revival,” which is set to premiere in summer 2025 on A&E.
