Phil Robertson, an American professional hunter, businessman, and reality television star, passed away on May 25, 2025, at 79, following his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2024.
He was the fifth of seven children born to Merritt Hale and James Robertson, who grew up in rugged conditions.
Highlights
- Phil Robertson’s brother, Si Robertson, a fan favorite with his humorous personality on Duck Dynasty, was a U.S. Army veteran who retired as a Sergeant First Class in 1993.
- His sister, Janice, suggested filming the family’s dynamic in the Duck Dynasty, which turned the Robertson brand into a multimillion-dollar empire.
- His other brothers, James Francis and Harold Gene, both served in the U.S. Air Force before pursuing varied careers.
Phil was an athlete in high school and earned a football scholarship to attend Louisiana Tech in Ruston in the 1960s. He played first-string quarterback for the Bulldogs before Terry Bradshaw.
He was a football sensation when he arrived at Tech in 1966 and started for two seasons in 1966 and 1967. However, he didn’t play in 1968.
Phil had the potential for a pro career, but was more interested in hunting. He threw 12 touchdowns and had 34 interceptions.
He declined to play professionally for the Washington Redskins because football conflicted with his hunting.
The quarterback playing ahead of me, Phil Robertson, loved hunting more than he loved football. He’d come to practice directly from the woods, squirrel tails hanging out of his pockets, duck feathers on his clothes. Clearly he was a fine shot, so no one complained too much.
Terry Bradshaw
An avid duck hunter, he taught for several years before becoming a commercial fisherman. Dissatisfied with the condition of duck calls, he invented his first Duck Commander call in 1972.
Duck Commander Company was incorporated in 1973, and it is a multimillion-dollar business as of 2025.
Phil Robertson’s Siblings’ Unbreakable Bond Behind The Duck Dynasty Fame
Phil Robertson was one of the most recognizable reality TV stars in America, but behind his success stands a family of hardworking, resilient siblings who each carved out their unique life paths.
He was the fifth of seven children raised by James and Merritt Robertson. They lived a self-sufficient lifestyle, hunting, fishing, and farming to survive.
Phil recalled that his family lived like the 1850s, even though it was the 1950s in his book, Happy, Happy, Happy. However, they were happy no matter the circumstances.
While Phil’s rise to fame brought the Robertson clan into the spotlight, his brothers and sisters each had remarkable stories.
His eldest brother, Thomas Robertson, was married to Nancy Robertson of Lindale, Texas, but details about his life remain private. He grew up in the same harsh, rural environment that shaped his brothers’ work ethic and values.
Phil’s brother, James Francis Robertson, was born in 1936 and served in the U.S. Air Force before building a successful journalism and public relations career.
He passed away on November 21, 2014, at the age of 78. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Connie Robertson, 6 sons (Jim, Stephen, Matthew, John, David, and Quentin), and eight grandchildren.
Harold Gene Robertson was another Robertson brother who served in the Air Force. After his military service, he took on multiple roles: Boy Scout district executive, coach, assistant principal, plant manager, home health administrator, and even a politician.
He spent his final years at the War Veterans Home in Monroe, Louisiana, before passing away on October 27, 2013. He was survived by his wife of 46 years, Mary Chandler Robertson, two daughters (Jeanne and Leslie), and two grandchildren.
Phil’s most famous brother besides him is Si Robertson, who became a beloved figure on Duck Dynasty with his quirky humor, camouflage outfits, and signature phrase.
Before fame, Si served in the U.S. Army, retiring in 1993 as a Sergeant First Class. His military service is honored in an exhibit at Louisiana’s Chennault Aviation and Military Museum.
Si has been an advocate for veterans, especially after his son struggled with PTSD following eight tours in Iraq. His lighthearted TV persona contrasts with his commitment to supporting fellow servicemen and women.
Phil’s brothers led notable lives, and his sisters, Janice and Judith, played pivotal roles in the family’s success.
Janice Robertson Dasher was a key member of the Duck Dynasty creation team. She suggested filming the family’s dynamic, which led to the hit reality show.
Her vision helped turn the Robertson brand into a multimillion-dollar empire.
Sadly, she passed away after battling Alzheimer’s disease on September 25, 2019. Her husband, Gordon, and three children, Melissa, Zach, and Grant, survive her.
Meanwhile, Judith Robertson lived a quieter life but remained a cherished family member. She passed away on June 20, 2006, and was buried in Mount Gilead Cemetery in Vivian, Louisiana.
Phil Robertson’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
Phil Robertson, beloved patriarch of the Robertson family and star of the hit reality series Duck Dynasty, passed away on May 25, 2025, at the age of 79.
Robertson had faced ongoing health challenges in recent years, but no specific cause of death has been disclosed. His family confirmed his death following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, which he was diagnosed with in 2024.
Phil rose to fame as the bearded, duck-calling founder of Duck Commander, a company that revolutionized waterfowl hunting.
His unapologetic faith, rugged charm, and family-first values made him a cultural icon, especially after Duck Dynasty became a television phenomenon.
The television series showcased the Robertson clan’s unique blend of humor, business savvy, and deep Christian faith.
Phil was a devoted husband to his wife of 59 years, Marsha Kay “Miss Kay” Carroway Robertson, whom he began dating in 1964 and married in 1966.
They raised four children, Alan, Jase, Willie, and Jep, and their families, who became central figures in the Duck Dynasty legacy.
Phil’s legacy extends to his 16 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply.
A private funeral service will be held for family, and a public celebration of life will be held to honor Phil’s enduring impact. Instead of flowers, the family requests donations reflecting his lifelong passions.
My dad has gone to be with the Lord today! He will be missed but we know he is in good hands, and our family is good because God is very good! We will see him again!
Jase Robertson
Phil Robertson’s larger-than-life personality, unwavering faith, and love for family and the outdoors leave an indelible mark on all who knew him.
He will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a man who lived boldly for God, family, and the call of the wild.
Rest In Peace, Phil Robertson
Additional Information
- Phil Alexander Robertson was born in Vivian, Louisiana, on April 24, 1946.
- He received a bachelor’s degree in physical education and a master’s in education.
- He faced controversy when he said that homosexual behavior was sinful in a 2013 interview he did with GQ magazine.
- His net worth was estimated at $10 million at the time of his passing.
