Duck Dynasty’s Phil Robertson Dead at 79, Family Pays Tribute/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Phil Robertson, star of Duck Dynasty, has died at age 79 following a battle with Alzheimer’s. His family shared tributes and confirmed his passing via social media on May 25, 2025. Despite his death, Duck Dynasty: The Revival will still air on A&E this summer.

Phil Robertson Death Quick Looks: Family Tribute and Legacy
- Date of Death: May 25, 2025
- Age: 79
- Cause: Alzheimer’s disease, publicly revealed in December 2024
- Notable Role: Patriarch of Duck Dynasty, founder of Duck Commander
- Legacy: Reality TV pioneer, devout Christian, and cultural icon
- Survived By: Wife Kay, children Jase, Willie, Jep, and grandchildren
- Upcoming Tribute: Private service planned, with public memorial details to follow
- Series Return: Duck Dynasty: The Revival still expected to premiere on A&E this summer
Deep Look: Phil Robertson’s Life, Passing, and Enduring Duck Dynasty Legacy
Phil Robertson, the rugged, faith-driven patriarch of Duck Dynasty, has died at age 79 following a publicly acknowledged battle with Alzheimer’s. The Louisiana native passed away peacefully surrounded by family, just months after his health diagnosis became widely known in late 2024.
Family Announces His Passing
The Robertson family confirmed the news on Sunday, May 25, through heartfelt social media tributes. Son Jase Robertson shared 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.”
Granddaughter Sadie Robertson Huff posted a nostalgic montage of family photos, while Willie and Korie Robertson shared on Instagram:
“We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord.”
They also thanked fans for their prayers and support, noting that a private family service is planned, with a public memorial to be announced.
Health Battle with Alzheimer’s
The family first disclosed Phil’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis on Unashamed with the Robertson Family podcast in December 2024. At the time, he was in the early stages, but son Jase revealed by April that his father’s condition had worsened.
“He’s really struggling… we’re just trying to keep him comfortable,” Jase shared.
Despite the deterioration, the family remained grounded in faith and committed to supporting Phil during his final months.
From Duck Calls to Duck Dynasty Fame
Phil, a former Louisiana Tech quarterback turned duck call craftsman, launched Duck Commander in 1972. That passion project evolved into Duck Dynasty, which premiered on A&E in 2012 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
Spanning 11 seasons, the series followed Phil, wife Kay, and their sons Jase, Willie, and Jep as they balanced faith, family, and duck hunting. Known for his trademark beard, camo attire, and straight talk, Phil’s persona resonated with millions of Americans.
The show ended in 2017 but inspired several spinoffs and merchandise lines. In January 2025, A&E announced Duck Dynasty: The Revival, slated to air this summer — a series now set to carry Phil’s legacy forward.
Faith, Family, and Fame
Married to Kay Robertson since their teens, Phil often spoke of his personal transformation through faith. From a troubled youth to a God-fearing father and businessman, his redemption arc became a central theme on the show.
“We’re here to love God, love each other, and keep it simple,” Phil once said.
Beyond TV, he authored books and regularly preached through podcasts and church appearances. His views often sparked both admiration and controversy — but his message remained consistent: faith, family, and freedom.
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