Tim Tebow Mourns Dad’s Death at 78 Following Parkinson’s Diagnosis: ‘He’s Home’

Tim Tebow, the former NFL player, has announced the passing of his father, Bob Tebow, in a heartfelt post shared on Instagram. Bob, who was 78 years old, died on the evening of April 24, 2023, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease, a diagnosis he received in 2016.

In his poignant tribute, Tim wrote, “Heaven ushered in a hero of the faith last night as my Dad was welcomed home.” He expressed a deep sense of comfort in the face of his father’s death, stating, “Many will say sorry for your loss but the truth is he’s not lost; we know exactly where he is. He’s home. Forever!” The post featured a collection of cherished photos of father and son, capturing moments from various milestones, including pictures from Tim’s wedding to his wife, Demi-Leigh Tebow.

In a deeply personal reflection shared with his followers, Tim recalled a conversation he had with his father just a week prior to his passing. He asked Bob what he looked forward to most about Heaven, to which Bob responded simply, “Jesus.” Tim conveyed his father’s eagerness to meet Jesus face to face, remarking, “Praise God that his wait is over. Death has been swallowed up in victory. He’s healed and whole now.”

Concluding his emotional message, Tim added, “So we don’t mourn as those with no hope. See you soon Dad!” The heartfelt tribute resonated deeply with his followers, many of whom offered condolences and shared their own experiences of loss in response.

Tim, who has been open about his father’s health struggles, previously discussed Bob’s condition in an interview with PEOPLE in 2016, revealing the emotional weight of his father’s diagnosis. “I got really emotional. I mean, this is my dad,” he said at the time. Their relationship was one built on love and shared interests, with Tim often looking to Bob for guidance on spiritual matters and personal advice.

In the same interview, Bob spoke of his refusal to let his diagnosis hinder his mission to spread the gospel. He asserted, “I may be slower, and I may shake on the way, but I still have work to do.” This determination to continue his life’s work saw Bob travel extensively, inspiring many around the globe.

After his diagnosis, Bob returned to the Philippines, where he dedicated time to visiting orphanages, prisons, and the Tebow CURE Hospital, which was established in 2014. Tim shared, “When you see Dad in a third-world country with hurting people, you’re like, ‘that’s what he’s meant to do.’ It’s his most comfortable place to be in the world,” highlighting the impact Bob had on the lives of countless individuals.

Bob Tebow’s dedication to his faith and his mission in life not only shaped his own path but also profoundly influenced his son, Tim, who has carried on his legacy in various ways throughout his career. As Tim navigates this difficult time, the memory of his father’s strength and unwavering faith will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light.

The loss of a parent is an incredibly difficult experience, and Tim’s reflection on his father’s life and faith offers hope and solace not just to him, but to many who have faced similar losses. In sharing his grief with the world, Tim has invited others to celebrate Bob’s life and the impact he made during his time on earth.