News Summary
The city of Newberry mourns the passing of Philip M. Bouknight, a respected figure in law enforcement and community service. Phil, aged 77, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025. His dedication to public safety and commitment to family and friends have left a lasting legacy. A graveside service will be held on April 23 at Ebenezer United Methodist Church Cemetery, allowing family and friends to pay their final respects.
Newberry Mourns the Loss of Beloved Local Figure Philip M. Bouknight
NEWBERRY, SC – The charming city of Newberry is in mourning as it bids farewell to one of its cherished residents, Philip M. “Phil” Bouknight, who peacefully passed away at his home on April 18, 2025, at the age of 77. A well-respected figure in both the police department and the local community, Phil leaves behind a legacy that spans decades of service and dedication to his family and friends.
A Lifelong Resident and Family Man
Born on September 18, 1947, Phil spent his entire life in Newberry, where he was embraced as a son of the late Wilbur Oneal Bouknight and Mabel Wilhite Bouknight. He graduated from Newberry High School in 1965, marking the beginning of a life devoted to community service. Phil was the loving husband to Joyce K. Bouknight until her passing, and together they built a warm family, including children Jodi (Benji) Sease and Wilbur (Katrina) Bouknight, who will carry on his legacy.
A Career of Service
Phil dedicated an impressive 25 years to the Newberry Police Department, where he retired as a Lieutenant. His commitment to public safety extended further as he served an additional 12 years as a State Constable. Beyond law enforcement, Phil was deeply involved in the community, becoming a Master Mason with Amity Lodge 87 in Newberry and being honored as an honorary firefighter by the Newberry Fire Department — a true testament to his spirit of service.
Life After Retirement
After hanging up his police badge, Phil found a new passion in home repairs, founding Phil Bouknight Home Repairs. He was known for his knack for fixing things and his generous spirit, often lending a hand to neighbors in need. But perhaps what brought him the most joy was spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren — Dylan, Kadence (Zachary), Gaines, Tazmyne (Isabella), Braydon, and the family’s beloved “baby dog” Kira.
A Member of the Community
Phil was a long-time member of Ebenezer United Methodist Church, where he sang in the church choir and played an active role in community events. Whether it was preparing turkey stews or serving meals to Salkehatchie members, Phil’s warm-hearted nature shone bright. He also enjoyed fishing and was a dedicated member of the Newberry Pistol Club until his wife’s passing, continuing to share knowledge of shooting with family members.
Remembering Phil: Services and Tributes
In a heartfelt ceremony, graveside services will be held at 2:00 PM on April 23, 2025, at Ebenezer United Methodist Church Cemetery, led by Rev. Jimmy Counts and Rev. Jeff O’Dell. Ahead of the service, family and friends are invited to share their memories during a visitation on the evening of April 22 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at McSwain-Evans Funeral Home.
As Phil is remembered, special pallbearers will include Micheal Kennedy, Jay Brogdon, Caitlin Branch, Dalton Reynolds, Jeremy Jackson, and Dustin Shaw. Honored guests, like Steve Bailey, Marvin Miller, and officers from the Newberry Police Department, will pay their respects as honorary pallbearers, highlighting the extensive influence Phil had on those around him.
A Lasting Legacy
Though Phil has been reunited with beloved family members, including his son, Christopher Neal Bouknight, his impact on the Newberry community will never be forgotten. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to a church or charity of one’s choice. Phil Bouknight leaves behind not just memories, but a legacy of love, service, and community spirit that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Phil Bouknight will certainly be missed, reminding us all of the importance of family, friendship, and community service. Rest in peace, Phil.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Bissler & Sons: Benjamin Newberry
- Penn Live: Sherry Updegraff
- Newcomer Funeral Home: Linda Newberry
- Flanner Buchanan: Mary Newberry
- Post and Courier: Yvonne Brien
- Wikipedia: Newberry, South Carolina
- Google Search: Philip M. Bouknight
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
