Phil Robertson, the founder of Duck Commander and patriarch of the “Duck Dynasty” family, has died at the age of 79. His daughter-in-law, Korie Robertson, announced the news in a family statement. “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord,” she wrote.
“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.”
Robertson was born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana. He earned a football scholarship to Louisiana Tech University and later worked as a teacher and commercial fisherman. In 1972, Robertson created his own duck call after being dissatisfied with the quality of existing calls.
He received a patent for his design and incorporated Duck Commander in 1973, growing the business into a multi-million dollar enterprise. Robertson and his company became household names through the reality TV show “Duck Dynasty,” which aired from 2012 to 2017 on A&E. The series chronicled the Robertson family’s daily life within the company and became a massive hit.
Despite the show’s success, Robertson faced controversies. In 2013, he was briefly suspended from the series following remarks he made about homosexuality in an interview. In 2015, he faced further criticism for controversial statements made during a prayer breakfast in Vero Beach, Florida.
Remembering Phil Robertson’s legacy
Duck Commander released a statement memorializing their founder: “In the duck hunting world, he was an innovator—a man with an unwavering love for what he did best and enjoyed most. Though he was uniquely special in his field, we will remember him for so much more—his love for Jesus and his passion for sharing Jesus with others is what truly stood out above all things.”
Robertson is survived by his wife of 59 years, Marsha Kay Carroway, and their five children, including sons Jase and Willie.
The Robertson family plans to hold a private service with details of a public celebration to be shared soon. Sadie Robertson, Phil’s granddaughter, shared a touching tribute to her late grandfather. She recalled the final words her “Papaw Phil” shared with her before he passed away and thanked fans for supporting her family through this difficult time.
“As I was sitting with Papaw Phil today, I thought about this verse… he has already experienced this on earth—going from dead to alive by the power of Christ! It was his testimony that changed his life, our families’ lives, and thousands of others. Now he is experiencing it in the fullness. Fully alive in Christ.
The new has come. One of the last things he said to me was ‘full strength ahead!’ Amen!” Sadie shared. Earlier this year, it was announced that “Duck Dynasty: The Revival” will premiere on A&E.
The reboot is set to focus on Robertson’s son, Willie, his wife, Korie, and their children.
