Phillip John Kinsley

Phillip John "Phil" Kinsley, 83, passed away on July 12, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri. Born in September 1941 in Wisconsin, Phil lived a life marked by resilience, warmth, and an unmistakable presence that left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Phil earned his bachelor's degree in Business from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. His education laid the foundation for a life of thoughtful engagement with the world-whether through his professional pursuits or his deep commitment to personal growth and community. In 1982, Phil became a State Farm insurance agent, a role he embraced for over three decades before retiring in 2012. He was known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and genuine care for his clients.

Phil met Jeanne, the love of his life, in the fall of 1973 when he was managing the automotive department at W. T. Grants. She called looking for snow tires for her MG convertible-an unusual request that sparked his curiosity. He had to meet the kind of woman who would put snow tires on a sports car. That conversation led to a first date, then a lasting partnership, and marriage in 1977. Their marriage of 48 years was built on laughter, mutual respect, and an enduring devotion to each other.

A man of many dimensions, Phil was known for his dry wit, sarcastic humor, and keen powers of observation. He could spend hours people-watching, spinning imaginative stories that entertained anyone fortunate enough to hear them. Well-read and endlessly curious, he loved discussing the books he devoured and could talk history and literature with ease. A passionate music lover, Phil appreciated a wide range of genres and was known to burst into song without warning, adding an unexpected soundtrack to everyday life.

While Phil's family was the center of his life and his proudest legacy, he also found deep purpose in service to others through a recovery program that meant a great deal to him. A devoted member for over 51 years, the program shaped his values and inspired a life rooted in compassion, humility, and honesty. As a sponsor and mentor, he walked alongside many on their path to healing, offering steadfast support and quiet wisdom. Just three days before his passing, Phil attended a meeting-one final expression of his lifelong commitment to helping others.

Phil also believed in strengthening his community through civic service and mentorship. He was a longtime member of Rotary International and served as president of his local chapter in 1999. He also volunteered as a Lunch Buddy in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, spending time each week visiting with a child at school-offering encouragement, conversation, and a steady presence. These roles reflected his quiet leadership, generosity of spirit, and belief in lifting others up.

Phil is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne Ann Kinsley; son Jason Kinsley and his wife Joan; daughter Rebecca Kinsley; grandchildren Ethan, Noah, Marie, Ann, and Lettie; and sister Judy Kay Siefert and her husband Vern. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Dorothy Kinsley.

Phil's legacy is one of strength through vulnerability, humor amid hardship, and love expressed through action. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him-and continue to inspire acts of kindness and courage for years to come.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, August 2, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Parish Hall in Springfield, Missouri, with a service beginning at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please support local programs dedicated to addiction recovery or youth mentorship, in honor of Phil's lifelong commitment to helping others.