Phil Alexander Robertson, a renowned American professional hunter, entrepreneur, and reality television star, was born on April 24, 1946, and passed away on May 25, 2025, at the age of 79.
Robertson's life was marked by his entrepreneurial spirit, as he founded the Duck Commander company, which became a household name. He also appeared on the popular television series Duck Dynasty, as well as the Outdoor Channel's hunting program Duck Commander.
Robertson's personal life was just as remarkable. He met his wife, Marsha "Miss Kay" Carroway, in 1964, and the couple began dating as high school sweethearts. They married in 1966 and had their first son, Alan, while attending college. Robertson attended Louisiana Tech University, where he played football and earned a master's degree in education.
Before founding Duck Commander, Robertson spent several years teaching. He was a devout Christian and an elder at the White's Ferry Road Church of Christ in West Monroe. He was also a vocal advocate for his beliefs and was known for his strong opposition to abortion, which he believed was a violation of the Declaration of Independence.
Robertson's life was not without its challenges. In his 20s, he struggled with personal problems, including excessive drinking, which led to a temporary separation from his wife. However, he credited a subsequent religious awakening for helping him overcome these issues.
In 2013, Robertson published a memoir titled Happy, Happy, Happy, which he co-authored with Mark Schlabach. The book offered a glimpse into his life and experiences. However, his views on homosexuality, which he expressed in a 2013 interview with GQ magazine, sparked controversy and led to his suspension from Duck Dynasty. Despite the backlash, the suspension was later lifted after nine days.
Robertson's later years were marked by health issues, including a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease in 2024. He passed away on May 25, 2025, leaving behind a legacy as a successful entrepreneur, devoted husband, and passionate advocate for his beliefs.