Phil Robertson, the outspoken patriarch of the Robertson family and founder of Duck Commander, passed away peacefully at the age of 79, his family confirmed on Saturday. A man of unwavering faith and bold conviction, Phil’s life left a mark far beyond the screen.
From Louisiana Swamps to National Fame
Born in 1946 in a small town in Louisiana, Robertson built a life rooted in hunting, family, and faith. He started Duck Commander in the 1970s, turning handcrafted duck calls into a booming business. But it was “Duck Dynasty,” the A&E reality show that aired from 2012 to 2017, that brought the Robertson family into millions of homes—and made Phil a cultural icon.
Viewers embraced his no-nonsense wisdom, his devotion to God, and the family’s unapologetically southern lifestyle.
A Private Battle with Alzheimer’s
Late last year, the Robertson family revealed that Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. His son Jase opened up about the diagnosis on their family podcast, sharing how the disease had begun affecting his father’s memory and overall health. Despite the decline, Phil remained surrounded by those he loved most—and remained grounded in his faith.
Tributes from Family
On social media, the Robertson family shared heartfelt tributes. Korie Robertson, wife of Phil’s son Willie, wrote: “Today, we celebrate a life well-lived. Phil was a husband, a dad, a grandpa—and a man after God’s own heart.”
Phil's impact went beyond television. He inspired many with his unwavering faith and dedication to his family. His daughter-in-law, Korie Robertson, expressed gratitude for the love and prayers from fans, highlighting Phil's strong Christian faith and the influence he had on many lives. The family plans to hold a private service, with details of a public celebration to be shared later
