Phil Robertson, Patriarch of ‘Duck Dynasty’ and Founder of Duck Commander, Dies at 79 After Battle with Alzheimer’s Disease
Phil Alexander Robertson, the charismatic patriarch of the Robertson family and star of the reality television series “Duck Dynasty,” passed away on May 25, 2025, at the age of 79. His death was confirmed by his family, who shared that he died peacefully at his home in West Monroe, Louisiana, after battling Alzheimer’s disease and other health complications. (The Washington Post, The US Sun)
Early Life and Education
Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, Phil Robertson was the fifth of seven children in a family that lived modestly. He attended Louisiana Tech University, where he played as a quarterback ahead of future NFL Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw. Despite being offered a contract by the Washington Redskins, Robertson declined, citing his passion for hunting over football. (Wikipedia)
After earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education and a master’s in education, Robertson briefly worked as a teacher before turning to commercial fishing and eventually inventing his own duck call. (Wikipedia)
Duck Commander and Rise to Fame
In 1972, Robertson founded Duck Commander, a company specializing in duck calls and hunting gear. The business, run by his family, gained national attention and became the centerpiece of the A&E reality series “Duck Dynasty,” which aired from 2012 to 2017. The show depicted the Robertsons’ lives and their Christian faith, attracting millions of viewers and turning the family into cultural icons. (KHBS, Taste of Country, The Washington Post)
Personal Life and Faith
Robertson married Marsha “Miss Kay” Carroway in 1966, and together they had five children, including sons Jase and Willie, who also starred on “Duck Dynasty.” In 2020, Robertson discovered he had a daughter, Phyllis, from a past affair, and they developed a close relationship in his later years. (Wikipedia, The US Sun)
A devout Christian, Robertson was known for his outspoken religious beliefs, which often sparked controversy. In 2013, he was briefly suspended from “Duck Dynasty” following remarks about homosexuality in a GQ interview but was reinstated after public backlash. (Time)
Health Decline and Passing
In December 2024, the Robertson family publicly disclosed that Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. His health deteriorated over the following months, with additional complications including a blood disorder and back pain. He passed away on May 25, 2025, surrounded by family. (People.com, The US Sun, KHBS)
Korie Robertson, his daughter-in-law, shared the news on social media, stating, “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord.” (KHBS)
Legacy
Phil Robertson’s legacy extends beyond television. He authored several books, including “Happy, Happy, Happy,” and co-hosted the podcast “Unashamed.” His life story was depicted in the 2023 film “The Blind,” which focused on his early struggles and redemption through faith. (The Washington Post, Wikipedia)
A new series, “Duck Dynasty: The Revival,” is set to premiere in the summer of 2025, focusing on the next generation of the Robertson family. (Wikipedia)
Phil Robertson is survived by his wife, Kay; his children, including Jase and Willie; his daughter Phyllis; numerous grandchildren; and his brother, Si Robertson. The family plans a private service, with a public celebration of his life to be announced at a later date. (The US Sun)
