“I had no idea obviously — no one could — of the longevity of its life."
Following his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, the star of “Duck Dynasty” and the patriarch of the Robertson family, Phil Robertson, has died.
He was 79 years old.
News of his death was shared first by his daughter-in-law Korie Robertson on Facebook. The May 25 post read, "We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord.”
Korie Robertson, who is married to Willie Robertson, continued, writing, “He reminded us often of the words of Paul, ‘You do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.’”
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“Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, by his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus,” Korie Robertson concluded her post. “We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again.”
Phil Robertson’s diagnosis was first shared by his son, Jase Robertson, during a December episode of the Unashamed with the Robertson Family podcast.
Jace Robertson revealed that although Phil Robertson was in the “early stage,” he added that things had "accelerated, and it's causing problems with his entire body.” Honestly, Jace Robertson told his listeners that his father was “just not doing well. He's really struggling."
Korie and Willie Robertson’s daughter, Sadie Robertson, later recalled her last moments with her grandfather on Instagram.
“‘Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.’ – 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV,” Sadie Robertson began her statement.
“As I was sitting with Papaw Phil today, I thought about this verse… he has already experienced this on earth—going from dead to alive by the power of Christ,” she shared.
“It was his testimony that changed his life, our families life, and thousands of others. Now he is experiencing it in the fullness. Fully alive in Christ. The new has come.”
Sadie Robertson then shared some of the last words Phil Robertson shared with her.
“One of the last things he said to me was ‘full strength ahead! Amen!’”
