Dr. James C. Dobson, a Christian psychologist who was a towering influence for an entire generation of evangelicals and a standard bearer for the traditional family and Biblical values, died early today (Aug. 21). He was 89.

Among the evangelical leaders honoring Dobson’s life was Franklin Graham, CEO and president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse.

“Dr. Dobson was a staunch defender of the family and stood for morality and Biblical values as much as any person in our country’s history,” Franklin posted. “For nearly five decades, he was one of the most influential Christian leaders in our country who saw the importance of faith in culture.

“He founded Focus on the Family in 1977, and after leaving that ministry, he then launched the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute. Dr. Dobson’s Family Talk radio program is heard by over half a million people each week. His legacy and impact for Jesus Christ will continue on for generations. I’m sure his wife, Shirley, and their children would appreciate your prayers.”

In 1936, Dobson was born in a ministry family in Shreveport, Louisiana. His father, grandfather and great-grandfather were ministers. Working as a family psychologist influenced his decision to found Focus on the Family, which became one of the largest faith-based organizations worldwide. In North America, over 4,000 radio stations broadcast his daily program. Reaching more than 160 countries, his broadcasts have been also translated into 27 languages. In 2010, he founded Family Talk, a Christian radio ministry that encourages listeners to preserve the Biblical definition of the family. A New York Times best-selling author, Dobson wrote more than 70 books. His work centered on preserving family through a Biblical foundation.

Dobson served presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump through advising or counseling. His most recent role was within Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board.

Dobson, along with Alan Sears, Bill Bright, D. James Kennedy and Larry Burkett, helped found Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), an influential Christian legal organization, in 1994. Dobson was also instrumental in the founding and early development of the Washington, D.C.-based Family Research Council.

“His bold leadership and commitment to the Gospel shaped the lives of so many and will continue to do so well beyond his last days here on earth,” Kristen Waggoner, CEO, president and chief counsel of ADF said. “We are confident he is walking victoriously into the arms of his Savior and hearing the words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’”

Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, called Dobson “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,” Bauer said. “He was a mentor, a counselor, and a steady voice of truth in turbulent times.”

Dobson is survived by his wife, Shirley, whom he married in 1960, as well as their children, Danae and Ryan. He has two grandchildren.

Photo: Franklin Graham Facebook