Phil Robertson: Duck Dynasty Patriarch and Founder of Duck Commander Die

Phil Robertson was an American hunter, businessman and reality television star best known as the bearded patriarch of A&E's Duck Dynasty and the founder of the Duck Commander duck-call company. Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, he turned a love of the outdoors into a family empire.

Robertson invented his first Duck Commander duck call in 1972, and the company was incorporated in 1973. Duck Dynasty ran from 2012 to 2017 and became one of the most-watched shows in cable history. In 2013 he published his memoir Happy, Happy, Happy, and in 2023 the film The Blind told the story of his early life.

Robertson married Marsha Kay "Miss Kay" Carroway in 1966, and they had five children, including Jase and Willie. He was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease in December 2024 and died on May 25, 2025, in West Monroe, Louisiana, at age 79. Remembered as a devoted family man and outdoorsman, he left a legacy rooted in faith, family and the duck blind.

Achievements: Invented his first Duck Commander duck call (1972), starred in Duck Dynasty (2012-2017), published the memoir Happy, Happy, Happy (2013), subject of the film The Blind (2023).

Birth: April 24, 1946 - Vivian, Louisiana.

Profession: Hunter, businessman and reality television star.

Interesting Facts: Robertson was the starting quarterback at Louisiana Tech ahead of future Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw but chose hunting over a pro football career. He summed it up: "Terry went for the bucks, and I chased after the ducks."