Introduction
Phil Robertson, the iconic Duck Dynasty star and patriarch of the Robertson family, has passed away at the age of 79. The news comes just months after the family revealed Phil had been battling Alzheimer’s disease and a blood disorder.
The Robertson family announced his passing in a heartfelt social media post, saying simply and powerfully:
“He is now with the Lord.”
A Man of Faith, A Legacy of Grace
The full family statement reflected Phil’s unshakeable Christian faith and the hope he carried into his final days:
“We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord. He reminded us often of the words of Paul, ‘you do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.’”
“Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus. We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again.”
A private funeral service will be held for Phil, with the family confirming that a public memorial will follow.
Final Days and Family Reflections
In recent weeks, Phil’s sons Jase and Al Robertson shared emotional updates about their father’s declining health through their Unashamed podcast. On a recent episode, Jase shared:
“Dad’s not doing great mentally or physically… We feel like he’s getting ready for the journey to the other side.”
The Robertson family had previously revealed that both Phil and his wife Kay had faced significant health challenges in recent years. Due to ongoing medical needs, the couple had even moved out of their cherished Louisiana home.
Phil’s Own Words on Dying
Phil Robertson had long prepared his family and followers for the day he would pass. In a 2022 Unashamed podcast episode, he told his son Jase:
“When I die, don’t cry. Sing. Dance. But don’t cry when I die. When I die you say, ‘He made it.’”
He echoed that sentiment again on his YouTube channel, stating:
“You’re gonna read that Phil Robertson has died… but just remember this — I didn’t pass away. I’ll just go from the tent to immortality. He’s going to bring me back, resurrect my body, make it a glorified body, and I’ll live with Him forever.”