Over the years, the late businessman thanked his wife, praising her for helping him get through their hardships. He revealed that when others told her to go, she stood up for both him and their kids.

Only a few months after his son posted a health report, professional hunter Phil Robertson passed away. Together, he and Kay Robertson, his wife of almost 50 years, reared four children.

As a relationship, Phil and Kay faced challenges, but they persevered and looked out for one another over the years. A look back at the couple’s courtship over time.

1.

Phil and Kay can be seen standing hand in hand in a comfortable living room in a previous chapter of their lives.

2.

The couple is seen outside with Sadie Robertson, their grandchild. Each member of the trio looks straight into the camera as they strike a close position.

3.

Kay is carrying a baby on her lap while the reality TV stars, now older, relax in a messy but livable environment. Phil, who is sitting next to them, gives them the thumbs up.

4.

On May 9, 2012, Phil and Kay attended the A&E Networks Upfront at Lincoln Centre in New York City, where they were joined by Adam Ferrara, Si Robertson, and Rutledge Wood. Together with the TV show presenter and the actor, the couple stood side by side and posed for the photo.

5.

In what looks to be a well-used family kitchen, the long-time couple sits close together on a couch.

6.

As they stand for the camera, the hunter and his cherished companion sit on either side of their grandchild, Sadie, holding hands. The three of them are seated close together on a couch, capturing a laid-back family moment.

7.

As they pose in front of a rustic cabin, Phil leans in close to Kay and they both smile warmly.

8.

On May 9, 2012, the pair stood with a group of guests, including Phil’s brother Si, during the A&E Networks Upfront at Lincoln Centre in New York City.

9.

On May 7, 2013, the two appeared on Extra and were interviewed by AJ Calloway in Times Square. The reality star and his spouse smiled at each other as they stood side by side in the crowded New York street, surrounded by the bustle of the metropolis.

10.

During an on-air segment on NBC News’ “Today show,” Phil, Kay, and their family are shown sitting in a row. The group participates in a broadcast family appearance while sitting in front of cameras, representing several generations.

11.

The TV pair participated in pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Duck Commander 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on April 11, 2015. At the vibrant event in Fort Worth, Phil and Kay showed up side by side, both sporting event passes and sunglasses.

12.

The two posed for a picture outside of “Extra” in Times Square. With Kay standing right next to Phil, who is most known for his roles in the reality TV show “Duck Dynasty,” giving him the thumbs up.

13.

Phil and Kay attend the A+E Networks Upfront with Willie, Korie, and Si Robertson. The trio posed together on the red carpet, combining their characteristic style of camouflage with formal wear.

14.

The duo is shown standing close to one another inside a workspace in what looks to be a behind-the-scenes photo. Phil looks forward, Kay looks up.

15.

On a laid-back evening indoors, the couple is surrounded by a happy family in a brightly illuminated house with stone accents. In their casual attire, Phil and Kay blend in among their loved ones for a group photo.

16.

Sitting at the table with their headphones on, the couple leans in to kiss during a podcast taping.

17.

Outside a rural wooden cabin, Phil walks hand in hand with his children’s mother on a gravel path.

18.

With a snowy backdrop behind them, the pair stands close to one another on a porch, bundled up against the cold. Phil maintains one arm around Kay, who is wearing a sweater and knit cap.

19.

In what appears to be a playful conversation, Kay, who is sitting on a porch with beverages on the table, reaches out softly towards Phil’s face.

20.

The two pose next to a microphone in a comfortable studio that is stocked with books and recording equipment. As Kay, wearing a festive jumper and beret, stands with her arm around Phil with a soft grin, Phil gives him the thumbs up.

21.

Kay sits next to Phil, who leans back in a camouflage-patterned recliner, wearing a festive green jumper and funny reindeer antlers.

22.

While his beloved wife sits at a wooden table and chuckles in the middle of a conversation, the family patriarch leans in and smiles softly.

23.

Focused, Kay holds a bouquet in one arm and makes movements with the other at an outdoor event. As they converse in the middle of the throng, Phil stands next to her and puts his hand on her cheek.

24.

Surrounded by vibrant Valentine’s Day balloons with hearts, flowers, and a teddy bear, Kay brightens from her chair. The TV celebrity seems to be celebrating the occasion in a cosy setting, her hands slightly up and her face beaming.

25.

The mother of four sits with her hands clasped in a dimly lit room as her loving husband gazes at her.

26.

In front of an American flag, Phil and Kay stand close to each other, their heads lightly touching, and share a kiss.

27.

The duo is heading towards a waiting jet at night as they walk hand in hand on an airport runway. Under the runway lights, Kay in a light jacket and Phil in camouflage move in unison with their backs to the camera.

28.

The reality TV star lies with his hand held tenderly by an off-camera person while he rests beneath a blanket with a crimson design.

Through Hard Years and Healing Hands: A Love Forged in Faith and Loyalty

Kay once talked about how she and Phil took care of one another by doing little things every day. As he assisted her with her cosmetics, she recalled with fondness mending his beard and added:

“I can’t wait to get back to taking care of my pioneer man.”

Reflecting on their past, the Louisiana native admitted, “The hard years were worth it to get to where we are today… The Lord really does turn messes into messages.”

Meanwhile, Phil also praised her unwavering support, “She didn’t just stand by me through bad times — she fought for me and for our boys when everyone told her to leave.” He added:

“Miss Kay, you’re a mama other mamas want to be like.”

A Difficult Chapter: Phil’s Health Decline Revealed by Family

Jase Robertson, the couple’s son, posted a devastating update on the “Unashamed with the Robertson Family” podcast in December 2024. He disclosed that his father had been suffering from a blood disorder for many years, which had progressively gotten worse and resulted in major health issues.

Alongside that, Phil had also entered the early stages of Alzheimer’s. “If you put those two things together, he’s just not really doing well, he’s struggling,” Jase said. The TV personality also noted that multiple doctors had come to the same conclusion — there was no cure for Phil’s condition.

In a loving tribute, the family later confirmed his departure on May 26, 2025. They mentioned his strong religious beliefs, cited scripture, and thanked everyone who were impacted by his life for their prayers and support.

They expressed their dedication to carrying on his legacy of love, faith, and service until they see him again and conveyed that he was now with the Lord.