Reverend Douglas Phenix, a beloved and respected figure, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2023, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on December 23, 1941, in Kirkcaldy, Scotland. He was a guiding light and a pillar of strength for all who knew him.
Douglas was preceded in death by parents William and Mary Phenix, and first wife, Ann. He is survived by his sister Janice (Sam), former wife and longtime companion Gloria, sons David (Gina) and Duncan (Jamie), Grandson Ian (Ashley), and great-grandson Harrison.
Douglas attended school at Glasgow University in Scotland. receiving an Honors degree in chemistry and a Divinity degree. He earned a Masters Degree in Theology from Union Theological Seminary in New York City with the help of a Fullbright Fellowship. He then became a Church of Scotland minister serving three congregations. In 1980 he immigrated with wife Ann, and sons David and Duncan to the United States. He served several congregations. In St. Peter Minnesota at Union Presbyterian, Fairlplain Presbyterian in Benton Harbor Michigan, and spent the later part of his career as a minister at Potwin Presbyterian Church in Topeka, KS and also serving Presbyterian churches in Pratt, Holton, and Rossville/Delia KS.
Throughout his life, Reverend Phenix was dedicated to serving his community and spreading the message of love and compassion. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his congregations touched countless lives, inspiring many to follow in his footsteps. He was active in the Interfaith Ministerial Association, Doorstep, and Mother to Mother.
He had a life-long interest in issues of science and religion and was active in Kansas Citizens for Science. During the conflict over teaching evolution in Kansas public schools. Reverend Phenix testified in front of the Kansas Board of Education, and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) sent a film to Potwin Church crew from the nightly news program "Newswatch" to interview him.
He loved music and was an accomplished pianist and accordion player. He had a beautiful bass voice and was active in the St. Peter Community Choir and the Topeka Festival Singers. He was an Associate Member of the Piano Technicians' Guild.
Despite the challenges he faced with Parkinson's Disease, Reverend Phenix remained steadfast and continued to make a difference in the lives of those around him. His resilience and courage in the face of adversity served as an example to all who knew him.
Reverend Phenix's legacy will live on through the numerous lives he impacted and the memories shared by his friends, family, and loved ones. His passing is a great loss, but his memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know him.
As we remember Reverend Douglas Phenix, let us honor his life and his unwavering dedication to his faith and his community. His spirit will forever be a beacon of light, guiding us toward a brighter and more compassionate world.
A memorial service will be held at Potwin Presbyterian Church, 400 SW Washburn in Topeka on Sunday July 30, 2023 at 1:00PM..
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kansas Citizens for Science or Midland Hospice.
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