Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail, of Raleigh, NC, widow of Dr. Irving P. McPhail, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Born and raised in segregated Tyler, Texas — the Rose Capital of the United States — Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail developed a deep love for books, writing, and storytelling at an early age. Her mother nurtured her passion for reading and learning, while her father captivated all who entered their home with unforgettable stories. From them she learned a truth she carried throughout her life: everyone has a story worth telling.

Throughout her distinguished career in higher education, Dr. McPhail broke barriers and created pathways for others to follow. She made history as the first woman and first African American President of Cypress College in Southern California. She later served as the founding director of the Community College Leadership Doctoral Program at Morgan State University , where she mentored and prepared generations of educators for leadership.

In her later years, she continued her work developing leaders as the 13th President of St. Augustine's University in Raleigh, North Carolina , and as the founding consultant of The McPhail Group, where she shared her wisdom and leadership with institutions and organizations across the country.

A lifelong lover of storytelling, she recently completed her first work of fiction, Sold: Bound by Chains, Freed by Courage .

Dr. McPhail believed deeply that our gifts are God-given and meant to be shared with the world. Her students and colleagues remember her not only for her brilliance but for her encouragement, her wisdom, and her unwavering belief in the potential of others.

She often described her work simply as "teaching the young folks how to do it."

Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail lived a life rooted in purpose, faith, and service. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she shaped, the leaders she mentored, and the enduring belief she instilled in others—that each of us has a story to write and a purpose to fulfill.

Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail leaves to cherish fond memories, her son, Ralph Bessard (Angela), of Woodland Hills, CA; daughter, Kamilah McKissick (Juan), of Charlotte, NC ; grandsons, Jordan, Justin, Julian, Connor, and Chase; along with many other relatives, colleagues, students, and friends.

Her life stands as a testimony that when a person faithfully walks in their calling, the impact of their life echoes far beyond their years.

Celebrations of Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail's Life and Legacy will be held as follows:

Friday, March 27, 2026 12:00 pm Celebration of Life Wake Chapel Church 3805 Tarheel Club Rd Raleigh, NC 27604

Flowers for this service may be ordered through the D. B. Walker Funeral Services website:

www.dbwalkerfuneralservices.com Saturday, April 25, 2026 11:00 am Celebration of Life Westside Church of God 1424 W California Ave Fresno, CA 93706

Flowers for this service may be sent directly to the church. Saturday, May 16, 2026 11:00 am Homegoing Services Swan Church of Christ 14260 County Road 471 Tyler, TX  75706

Interment Starks Johnson Cemetery Tyler, TX

Family members are at their respective homes.

Professional services entrusted to D. B. Walker Funeral Services, Anderson, SC.