SR0525 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0525 LRB104 16556 LAW 29954 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Philip R. "Phil" Supple of Normal, who passed away on November 22, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Phil Supple was born to John and Ruth Supple in Danville on February 28, 1952; he served in the United States Navy; after his military service, he earned a degree in communication from Southern Illinois University; and

WHEREAS, Phil Supple began his career in radio at WJBC, which soon led him into television journalism at WEEK 25, where he eventually became director of the news station; his writing and speaking skills later brought him to State Farm, where he served as director of public relations and played a key role in guiding the company's communications during Hurricane Katrina; he also shared his passion for storytelling as an instructor of communication courses at Bradley University; he retired in 2018; and

WHEREAS, Phil Supple was a talented guitarist, and he cherished making music, attending concerts, and playing in the praise band at Community United Church of Christ in Morton; in recent years, he worked at Roth Pumpkin Patch in Morton during the autumn months, driving the hayrack ride and the children's barrel train; he further contributed to his community through volunteering with a number of organizations throughout the years, including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Special Olympics; and

WHEREAS, Phil Supple enjoyed retirement with his wife, Leah, at their home in Normal, where he embraced the things he loved most, including music, teaching, service, and the simple joy of observing a summer storm rolling in while he relaxed on the porch with a cold beverage and his beloved dog, Maggie; and

WHEREAS, Phil Supple lived a life defined by curiosity, kindness, and a gift for communication that touched countless people; he will be remembered for his quick wit, his warm and gracious personality, and the way he made everyone around him feel heard and valued; his legacy will live on through the stories he told, the music he played, and the love he shared so freely; and

WHEREAS, Phil Supple was preceded in death by his parents; and

WHEREAS, Phil Supple is survived by his wife, Leah; his children, John (Jenn), Annie (Charles), and Max (Sara); one granddaughter; his sisters, Jan (Bob) and Nancy (Jim); one niece; and his mother-in-law, Marilyn; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Philip R. "Phil" Supple and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Phil Supple as an expression of our deepest sympathy.