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Phillip Keirstead Obituary
He was born May 1, 1938, to Irma and Loyd Keirstead in Waterville, Maine.
He was raised in Maine and Connecticut graduating from Hamden High School in Connecticut. He went on to matriculate at Bates College in Maine but graduated summa cum laude from Boston University in Radio and Television. He spent the next 20 years in broadcast news in Connecticut, Iowa, North Carolina, Missouri culminating at CBS News in NYC.
He started a second career teaching broadcast journalism having gotten Masters from University of Iowa. He taught at Fordham and Hunter in New York then joined the faculty of Florida A&M in Tallahassee for 29 years. During that time he also earned a PhD from City University in London, England. He was a senior Fulbright professor to India and did many seminars around the world for the USIA.
He was the author of nine books and about 1,500 articles.
Phil enjoyed traveling, eating, reading and meeting people. He also never met a potato he didn't like.
Phil is survived by his wife S.K. Keirstead and poodle, countess Penelope.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Phillip Keirstead
4 Entries
Dawn Triplett
November 20, 2022
Over the years, I have thought about Prof. Keirstead or Papa Smurf as we (journalism students) used to call him :-) Today, I googled his name and discovered he has transitioned. He was one of my favorite professors at FAMU; he was tough but fair. When he complimented my work, I knew I had done a good job because he had high standards. God bless you, Dr. Keirstead, and thank you for being an awesome professor. You will never be forgotten
Susan Wainwright
October 16, 2021
Mrs. Kierstead, I am sorry to be so late with my condolences for your husband. I remember the two of you (and Penelope) fondly from your many visits to The Presidents´ Quarters Inn in Savannah, Georgia when I worked there. I came across a business card from your antique shop this afternoon and found Mr. Kierstead´s obituary when I searched for you. Although it has been a good while since he passed away I wanted you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Michael Abrams
April 19, 2017
Phil set a level of academic and ethical expectation that he, himself, reflected in his own accomplishments. No colleague or student could have known Phil Keirstead who did not benefit from his knowledge, industry and tough honesty about what it took excel as a journalist. He was a friend and colleague at FAMU for many years and his passing brings back so many memories. It is hard for me to hear that he is gone. My sympathies to SK and his extended family.
Allen Thompson
April 16, 2017
So sad to hear of Phil's passing. We all cherish the fond memories and wish all the best for his family. May God bless. Allen Thompson
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