Philip Clifford Painter

Philip Clifford Painter, 46, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord on Monday, May 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital in Germantown, Tennessee. Born December 18, 1978, in Jonesboro, he was the cherished son of Ronnie and Linda Painter.

Philip was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. He graduated from Westside High School in 1997 and dedicated his life to nurturing young minds, beginning his teaching career at Westside Pre-K and later at Jonesboro Pre-K. His gentle nature and profound patience made him a beloved teacher, possessing a remarkable gift for connecting with children. A man of quiet faith, Philip was a member of Temple Baptist Church. His kindness, humility, and few words spoke volumes about his character.

For 27 years, Philip shared his life with his loving wife and best friend, Stephanie. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his sons, Dylan (Brianna) and Cody (Celesta), and his daughter, Abigail (Chandler). He is also survived by his parents, Ronnie and Linda Painter; his brother, Toby (Anna) Painter; his sister, Rachel (Brian) Beach; his uncle, James (Renea) Baker; and his aunts, Katharine Little, Barbara (Jake) Barnes and Carla (William) Brown. He will also be dearly missed by a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Philip was preceded in death by his grandparents, Earl and Joyce Baker, and Charles and Leona Painter.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 10:00 a.m. at Emerson Memorial Chapel. Officiating will be Andy Neal, with Brian Beach serving as guest speaker. Pallbearers will be Toby Painter, Jeremy Baker, Brian Beach, Garrett Barnes, Anthony Cline, and Jeff Brun. Interment will follow at Trinity Cemetery in Bono, Arkansas.

Philip was a staunch supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a testament to his compassion and dedication to helping others, especially after his son Cody’s own courageous battle with childhood cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Make-A-Wish, or the American Cancer Society. His memory will forever be a blessing to all who knew him.