Robert Wayne Phillips
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Robert Wayne Phillips
June 14, 1947 – May 25, 2025
Robert Wayne Phillips, 77, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025. Born on June 14, 1947, in Mexico, Missouri, he was the only child of William and Naomi Phillips, who preceded him in death. From the start, Bob stood out as both a standout scholar and athlete, destined for a life rooted in dedication, wisdom, and quiet strength.
He attended Northeast Missouri State University, where he met the love of his life, Marcia. Their nearly 57-year marriage was a shining example of deep connection, laughter, and enduring partnership. Together, they shared a love of golf, dancing, and winters spent in their Arizona home while always finding joy in each other’s company.
Bob served as an educator and school administrator for 34 years, guiding students and supporting teachers with a steady hand and a servant’s heart. He lived a life of service, often speaking up for those who needed it most, and he believed in the power of education to transform lives.
His most important roles, though, were those of Husband, Father, and “Poppie.” He is survived by his devoted wife, Marcia; his son, Jared Phillips, and daughter-in-law, Carla, and their children Charlotte, Greta, and Harrison; and his daughter, Megan Doyle, and son-in-law, Kelly, and their children Ryann, Reese, and Reagan. He was their biggest fan, always ready to play a game, sing a song, share a joke, or cheer proudly from the sidelines. He rarely missed a school or sporting event and loved nothing more than showing up for his grandkids. His legacy of love, joy, and unwavering support lives on through each of them.
Bob was meticulous and thoughtful, known for his kind heart and detailed mind. He lived with quiet strength and with deep purpose. He loved without hesitation and led by example. He was a friend to many and the kind of man who made you feel seen, heard, and valued.
He enjoyed golf, woodworking, dancing with Marcia, and getting lost in a good book. More than anything, he loved being with his family. Bob lived with purpose and loved without hesitation. He will be missed beyond measure.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 1st at 2 p.m. at Kaw Prairie Community Church, 9421 Meadow View Drive, Lenexa, Kansas, 66227, and all who knew and loved Bob are welcome to attend and celebrate his remarkable life. To view the service live, click HERE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Kaw Prairie Community Church.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and widow
We have many cherished memories of our years spent with Bob and Marcia. Our friendship was rooted in our time together at Raytown Christian Church where we were together in Sunday School Class and church leadership. After retirement, we continued to connect frequently for lunch or dinner when they were back from their time in Arizona. Our thoughts are now with Marcia, Megan, Jared, and their families as we join them in grieving their loss of our good friend.
I remember Mr. Phillips from my high school. I had him for Algebra. A great person.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Have many good memories of Bob from his time in Marshall Missouri
I didn’t know Bob extremely well but he participated in the Chosen study at Kaw Prairie. Thank you for sharing your kindness with me!
I’m sorry for the loss of Mr Phillips. He played golf with my dad therefore I got to visit with him in a non-school setting. He made a big impact on R-VI High School to which
I attended when he was promoted from assistant principal to principal.
Bob and I have been friends since kindergarten and throughout our time in the Mexico school system. The Mexico High School Class of 1965 will miss him! My prayers for the family!
Jody and I are grateful for having Bob and Marcia in our lives, both as friends and colleagues. He was an outstanding school administrator known for his expertise and leadership. He left a legacy of service to the world.
We knew Bob and Linda from Shawnee Park Christian Church. From the moment they joined the church, they fit in and pitched in to help anywhere needed, as if they had been there for years. His obituary describes Bob to a T! He was kind, smart, and funny. I still remember his laugh and his big smile. He will be missed—our condolences to Marcia, their friends, and family.
My deepest sympathy to the Phillips family. I had the joy of meeting Megan in college, becoming dear friends, and continued being close to her in adult life. As a result, I was able to know Bob and understand what a great man and gentle soul he was. He will be greatly missed.
Bob and Marcia welcomed us into our neighborhood. They were both with us in heart when troubles came along. Bob always had a smile, and anyone he met was a friend. My husband and he walked early morning most days of the week – times for some deep conversations. He had the calmest demeanor. I’m going to miss him terribly.
Our deepest sympathy to the Phillips family, Ron & Carol’s thoughts and prayers are with you.
We’re deeply sorry for your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Phillips family. Bob was an exceptional administrator and truly cared about others. He always had a wonderful smile, and his outgoing personality made him an individual you wanted to be around. He will be missed, and it was a privilege to know him.