Christine Johnson McPhail

Christine Johnson McPhail was a force of nature wrapped in a warm smile and a ready laugh. Born on February 1, 1946, Chris lived her 80 years with an unwavering commitment to education, community, and family. She had a way of making everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room—whether she was leading a university or hosting a backyard barbecue. Her kitchen was always open, her coffee pot always on, and her advice always honest, whether you asked for it or not. Family was everything to Chris. She and her beloved husband, Michael, shared a love story that spanned five decades, built on mutual respect, endless conversations, and a shared passion for making the world better. She was the proud mother of three children—David, Sarah, and James—and the adoring grandmother to seven grandchildren who called her "Nana Chris." She never missed a soccer game, school play, or dance recital, always arriving with homemade cookies and a camera. Her family knew they could count on her for everything from homework help to heartfelt pep talks at 2 AM. Chris's professional life was marked by quiet determination and groundbreaking achievements. As the thirteenth president of St. Augustine's University from 2021 to 2023, she led with compassion and vision, always putting students first. But she never let titles define her. What mattered most was the difference she made in individual lives—the student she encouraged, the colleague she mentored, the community she uplifted. She believed education was the great equalizer and worked tirelessly to open doors for others. In her free time, Chris found joy in the simple pleasures: tending to her rose garden, losing herself in a good mystery novel, and hosting lively dinner parties where the wine flowed and the laughter never stopped. She had a green thumb, a generous spirit, and a laugh that could light up any room. Her friends knew her as the one who remembered birthdays, sent thoughtful notes, and showed up when it mattered most. Christine Johnson McPhail passed away in February/March 2026 after a brief battle with cancer. She faced her final days with the same grace and courage that defined her life, surrounded by family who loved her beyond measure. The world is dimmer without her light, but her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched. She taught us to lead with kindness, to love without conditions, and to always, always make time for what matters. We will miss her every single day, but we carry her spirit with us—in our hearts, our actions, and our commitment to making the world a little better, just as she did.