James Dobson, Focus on the Family founder and presidential adviser, dies at 89

Dr. James Dobson, who founded the Christian ministry Focus on the Family and was a presidential adviser for five administrations, died on Thursday at 89.

Dobson was a psychologist, New York Times best-selling author, and a Radio Hall of Fame broadcaster, the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute said in its announcement.

“Dr. Dobson was a pioneer—a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family and culture,” JDFI Senior Vice President of Public Policy Gary Bauer said in a statement. “His bold leadership, integrity, and compassion helped equip countless families to thrive in a world of shifting values. He was a mentor, a counselor, and a steady voice of truth in turbulent times.”

Dobson's ministry focused on "strengthening marriages, guiding parents, and defending biblical values by championing the central role of family in America," JDFI said.

He was born in Shreveport, La., in 1936, and founded Focus on the Family in 1977, one of the largest faith-based organizations in the world.

Dobson had daily broadcasts on over 4,000 radio stations across North America, and translated into 27 languages in more than 160 countries. After leaving Focus on the Family in 2010, he launched JDFI and started Family Talk, a nationally syndicated radio broadcast.

He wrote more than 70 books and was appointed to presidential commissions by Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. Also, he served on President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board.

Dobson is survived by his wife, Shirley, their two children, and two grandchildren.