Jeff Springer

John Jeffrey Springer went home to his Heavenly Father on June 11, 2025. Born in Denton, Texas, on May 6, 1962, to John D. and Carol Ann Springer, Jeff’s life was rooted in faith, family, and a steadfast commitment to others.

As a young child, Jeff’s curiosity and joy for life were evident - even in simple pleasures like chasing prairie dogs through Odessa parks. In 1966, he earned the proud title of “Big Brother” with the birth of his sister, Ann, whom he adored. The family soon returned to Sanger, where Jeff made life-long friends and graduated with the Class of 1980.

At Baylor University, Jeff’s steady determination earned him respect – but it was his humility and genuine love of learning that set him apart. He completed both his B.A. in Economics with Honors (1983) and his J.D. from Baylor Law School (1985) in just five years - a remarkable achievement. During law school, he endured the heartbreak of losing his mother, Carol Ann, one of his earliest encouragers and strongest champions.

It was at Baylor’s Allen Hall cafeteria where he met Michelle - the love of his life. They married in 1985 and settled in Denton, where Jeff began his legal career at Phillips and Hopkins, P.C. Their home soon welcomed rescue pups - and later, the greatest joys of Jeff’s life: their son Eli in 1994, and daughter Audrey in 1998. Fatherhood transformed Jeff. He loved his family fiercely and without reservation; they were his world.

In 1985, Jeff met Frank Lyle, who became not only his law partner but a brother in every way. Together they founded Springer and Lyle, LLP, a firm grounded in their shared values: service, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility. Jeff was a gifted litigator and mediator, known not just for his legal acumen, but for the grounded compassion he brought to every case. His contributions to the legal profession were numerous and respected.

Jeff believed deeply in community. He gave his time generously to First United Methodist Church in Denton, where he served on the Finance and Building Committees, the Administrative Board, and the Board of Trustees. A passionate supporter of the arts, Jeff served on the Governing Board of Theatre Denton and was instrumental in helping community theatre find its home at the Campus Theatre downtown. He also volunteered with Big Brothers and Sisters, the Greater Denton Arts Council, and helped create the Sanger Education Foundation in memory of his mother. He taught as an adjunct professor at TWU and mediated pro bono for the Denton County Alternative Dispute Resolution Program.

At home, Jeff was playful, thoughtful, and present. His peanut butter French toast became a cherished tradition. He read Harry Potter aloud at bedtime and recited How the Grinch Stole Christmas by heart each year. Jeff never missed a performance, recital, game, or meet. He once bought a motor home – not for travel, but for presence. Wherever his children were, that’s where he needed to be. He led by quiet example, taught with humility, and loved without condition.

Jeff was endlessly curious. He was a reader, a private pilot, a musician, a golfer, a published author, a Baylor Bear fan, a Sunday school teacher, and - much to Michelle’s dismay - a drummer. His life was full, textured, and richly lived.

From his dad, Eli inherited a love for Baylor football, golf, thoughtful debate, and a knack for working with his hands. They shared a deep bond over baseball, road trips to Waco, and unhurried father-son time – occasionally on the 19th hole.

From her daddy, Audrey inherited his creative spirit, fierce determination, passion for music, and love of laughter. Together they shared runs, misadventures, and the unshakable bond of a daughter who proudly answers to “Peanut” – even on speakerphone.

Michelle was gifted with a partner whose soul was steadfast and true. Jeff was patient, kind, and loyal - always encouraging her to dream bigger, believe more, and find strength in love’s quiet persistence. He also stood by Michelle in her endless quest to rid the house of dog hair. Some of that dog hair likely came from their beloved Springer Spaniel, Griffy. Even years later, Jeff’s eyes would tear up at the mention of his old friend. Through four decades of marriage, Jeff and Michelle discovered that real love is found in small, daily acts of grace, forgiveness, and shared wonder.

Jeff is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 40 years, Michelle; son Eli and wife Hayley; daughter Audrey and husband Josh; Father John and wife Liz; sister Ann and husband Tom; mother-in-law Valetta; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Marcelyn and Carl; nieces and nephews Julia, David, Matthew, and Catherine; and a wide circle of extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Carol Ann Springer, his uncle Randy Holder, and many beloved grandparents and family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Jeff’s honor may be made to First United Methodist Church of Denton, Our Daily Bread – Denton, or the Sanger Education Foundation.

A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at 11:00 am on June 28th at First United Methodist Church in Denton. 

Please share a memory or offer condolences to the Springer Family in our online guestbook.