Jonesboro, AR — (JonesboroRightNow.com) — May 30, 2025 — Jonesboro Public Schools is mourning the death of one of its teachers.
Philip Painter, a Pre-K teacher at JPS, died Monday, May 26, according to his obituary shared on the school’s Facebook page. He was 46. He leaves behind his wife, children and parents.
Painter, known as Mr. Philip to his students, graduated from Westside High School in 1997. He began his teaching career at Westside Pre-K before teaching at JPS.
“Jonesboro Public Schools is saddened by the loss of one of our teachers, Philip Painter,” the school said in its Facebook post. “Our condolences go out to all his friends and family members.”
Painter was a member of Temple Baptist Church, located in Jonesboro.
“His gentle nature and profound patience made him a beloved teacher, possessing a remarkable gift for connecting with children,” the obituary said. “His kindness, humility, and few words spoke volumes about his character.”
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 2, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., followed by a service at 10 a.m. at Emerson Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Trinity Cemetery in Bono.
“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,” his obituary said. “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.”