Eagle Forum Praises the Life and Legacy of Dr. James Dobson

August 21, 2025 | Washington, D.C.

Eagle Forum is saddened to learn of the death of Dr. James Dobson, the influential founder of Focus on the Family, who dedicated his life to promoting strong families, traditional marriage, sound education policies, the right to life, and religious freedom.

Dr. Dobson was a dear colleague of Eagle Forum’s founder, Phyllis Schlafly, who was humbled to receive the “James C. Dobson Vision and Leadership Award” for her role as the “Mother of the Profamily Movement.”  We believe Dr. Dobson deserves to be called its father. His ministry to individual families in turn strengthened the nation as he understood that strong families are necessary for freedom to flourish.

Eagles from across the country send their condolences to Dr. Dobson’s wife, Shirley, who received Eagle Forum’s Homemaker of the Year award in 1999, and his children and grandchildren. Countless families and children across the nation have been enriched from his wisdom, counsel, and the myriad of resources he provided through his various ministries.  We mourn his passing from this life and rejoice in his reunion with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.