"Our early years were messy": Kay Robertson's heartfelt 2024 tribute resurfaces as husband Phil Robertson dies at 79

Phil Robertson, star of the Duck Dynasty family and founder of Duck Commander, has died at the age of 79.

Phil Robertson's passing was confirmed by family members on Sunday, May 25, 2025. The news comes months after it was made public in December 2024 that Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, according to CNN.

After the news of his death, fans have been revisiting a touching tribute, which was shared by his wife, Kay Robertson, on Instagram in early 2024.

Kay had been married to Phil Robertson for nearly six decades. She posted the heartfelt message on March 23, 2024. She spoke about their struggles and more.

Kay Robertson's post read:

"Phil takes care of me, and I take care of him. Sometimes he fixes a little makeup smudge for me, and I comb the chicken biscuit crumbs out of his beard. I'm getting over being sick, and I can't wait to get back to taking care of my pioneer man. I love Phil, and I really want y'all to know that the hard years were worth it to get to where we are today."

She continued:

"Our early years were messy, and I never dreamed our family would turn that story into a movie. But the Lord really does turn messes into messages, and The Blind movie is proof of that. If the story of Phil's wild, godless years can help point people to Jesus, that's the story we'll keep telling."

She added:

"So if you haven't seen it yet, watch The Blind. It's our family's true story, and you'll love it. It's now streaming exclusively on @greatamericanpureflix. They have so many good shows and movies, and you can watch free for a week."

She concluded, stating:

"Love y'all, and please remember Jesus loves you too. Redemption really is for all of us. And thank you for all the prayers!"

Phil Robertson became a household name through Duck Dynasty

The A&E reality series aired from 2012 to 2017. The show followed the lives of the Louisiana-based Robertson family, who built a business, Duck Commander, around duck calls and hunting gear. The family's Christian values, humor, and commitment to one another resonated with viewers across the country.

Phil Robertson was a former college football quarterback, per Time. He reportedly struggled in his early adult life with alcoholism, according to a People report in November 2013. Kay Robertson, known as Miss Kay, remained by his side during what she called the "messy" years.

Phil Robertson's health had been deteriorating in recent months. His son, Jase Robertson, revealed on their podcast Unashamed with the Robertson Family that Phil's Alzheimer's had worsened and that other health issues had emerged. Jase shared in April:

"He's just not doing well. He's really struggling.”

On Sunday, the family announced Phil's death with social media tributes.

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