Late Duck Dynasty star revealed that he had an adult daughter from a past affair years before he died at 79. In Touch looks back on his surprising revelation after she took to social media in 2025 with a statement to honor his memory in the wake of his passing.

Phil’s son Alan explained in 2020 that he and his brother Jase received a letter from a woman named Phyllis who claimed to be their sister.

“So basically, it was from a woman who said that by a DNA search, she thinks that dad might be her dad,” Alan shared on the “Unashamed” podcast, adding that he initially “dismissed” the letter because the woman’s birthday was after the time Phil had become a Christian in the 1970s.

However, upon learning she wasn’t looking for money and that she’s also a Christian, Alan decided it was time to tell his parents. “Once we get into that and start looking at it a little more deeply, I’m like, ‘Oh woah, woah … there might be something to this,’” Al said.

The results of the DNA test revealed a 99.99 percent match between Phil and the woman.

“It’s a pretty cool explanation of redemption, reconciliation, love,” the Robertson patriarch said. “As it turns out, you have a daughter that you don’t know about and she has a father she doesn’t know about, 45 years doesn’t sound like very long, but you see, that’s a while.”

Phil previously admitted to being a philander prior to finding Jesus. However, it appears his daughter was conceived just before he devoted himself to the church. Phil tied the knot with his wife, , known as Miss Kay, in 1966 and the two remain married.

Now, Phil’s sons — who also include Jep and Willie — are thrilled to have a sister. “It was super awesome, I was so excited,” Jep said of the news. “It was like a dream come true.”

Phil’s death at 79 was announced by loved ones on May 25, 2025, after he faced multiple health issues, including Alzheimer’s disease and a blood disorder.

“These are just a small glimpse of the countless moments we hold dear. We’re truly moved by the overwhelming love and prayers shared by so many whose lives were impacted by Dad,” she captioned a series of family photos shared via her Instagram as a heartfelt tribute. “We wish we had more time, but we have overwhelming joy knowing he has met Jesus face to face.”

Phyllis also reflected on some of her favorite memories since their reunion, including cooking together and going duck hunting.

At the end of the June 1, 2025, premiere, a tribute was featured on the episode.

“So ladies and gentlemen, start your engines. Only one will earn the bandana, so let the games begin. What do you think, Phil?” Willie asks, to which Phil replied with a supportive thumbs up.

“Ah, that was awesome!” Willie responded before the screen fades to black and a throwback photo of Phil appears, celebrating his legacy after A&E announced the new series in January 2025.