Dr. James Dobson, the founder of Focus on the Family and a prominent advisor to five U.S. presidents, has died at the age of 89. His passing was announced by the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute on Thursday morning. Dobson was a psychologist and a significant figure in American evangelicalism, known for his influence over the past 50 years.

Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, praised Dobson's impact, stating, "Dr. Dobson was a pioneer—a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family, and culture. 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."

Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1936, Dobson dedicated his life to promoting traditional family values. He founded Focus on the Family in 1977 in Arcadia, California, and grew it into one of the largest evangelical ministries globally. The organization moved its headquarters to Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 1991. Under Dobson's leadership, the Focus on the Family daily radio program reached over 4,000 stations across North America and was translated into 27 languages, making it one of the most widely heard faith-based radio shows.

In 2010, Dobson established the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, focusing on a more personal approach to his mission. He authored more than 70 books on family preservation, including notable titles like "The New Dare to Discipline" and "When God Doesn’t Make Sense."

Dobson's influence extended into politics, where he advised U.S. presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump. He was part of Trump's Evangelical Executive Advisory Board, formed in 2016 to address issues important to evangelical voters. Throughout his career, Dobson was a vocal opponent of abortion and same-sex marriage, advocating for traditional family structures.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley, whom he was married to for 64 years, their children Danae and Ryan, daughter-in-law Laura, and two grandchildren.