JAMES CLAYTON DOBSON
By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the NEWS
The world mourns Dr. James Clayton Dobson, Jr., a man whose faith and wisdom touched millions, and San Benito mourns with deep pride, cherishing a local hero who graduated from San Benito High School in 1954.
Dobson passed away on August 21, 2025, at 89, leaving a void felt by families who leaned on his guidance.
Born April 21, 1936, in Shreveport, Louisiana, he came to San Benito as a teenager, taking lessons from this community to a global stage.
Raised by his parents, Myrtle and James Sr., a Nazarene pastor, Dobson gave his heart to Christ at the age of three, a moment that defined his life’s purpose.
At Pasadena College, he met Shirley Deere, his wife since 1960, and they raised two children, Danae and Ryan. With a Ph.D. in child development from the University of Southern California in 1967, Dobson spent 17 years at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, learning what families needed to thrive.
His 1970 book Dare to Discipline became a beacon for parents, blending firm boundaries with heartfelt love, and sold millions. In 1977, he founded Focus on the Family, a ministry that reached 220 million listeners on over 7,000 radio stations across 164 countries.
His radio program by the same name, offered faith-driven advice that steadied countless homes. “I grew up hearing Dr. James Dobson’s voice on the radio while my parents leaned on his wisdom — especially The Strong-Willed Child,” said Cally Crothers, a young mother and follower of Dobson’s teachings. “I didn’t realize it then, but now as an adult, I find myself pulling from the same truths they did. I’m so grateful for the way his guidance shaped not just my parents, but me too.”
Dobson wrote over 70 books, including The Strong-Willed Child, Bringing Up Boys, and Love Must Be Tough, guiding families through life’s trials.
“Dr. Dobson has left us a legacy of love,” said Pastor Mike Holien. “His book, Bringing Up Boys, helped me understand how to wrangle two very rambunctious boys in a way that would help them take on the world confidently. I would not be the father I am today without the wisdom of Dr. James Dobson.”
Dobson founded the Family Research Council in 1981, Family Policy Alliance in 2004, and the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute in 2010, continuing his work through the national radio show, Family Talk. He advised five U.S. presidents, earned a Radio Hall of Fame induction, and boosted homeschooling with a 1982 interview with Dr. Raymond Moore.
“The world lost a powerful man of God,” said Veta McKinney, a mother who raised two children on Dr. Dobson’s teachings. “Back when I was raising my kids, I tuned into so many voices for guidance, but Dr. Dobson’s Focus on the Family stood out like a clear signal through the static. His words on love and discipline shaped how I parented, and I’ll always cherish the warmth and wisdom he shared.”
While some, like Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, noted his conservative views sparked debate, even critics called him “a force.” Gary Bauer of the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute said, “He was a pioneer whose voice shaped generations.”
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