Phillip A. Daykin, a beloved resident of Springfield, Illinois, has died on December 15, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital at the age of 89. His passing marked the close of a life defined by steadfast service, enduring faith, and devotion to family.
He was born on July 3, 1936, in Springfield to Deane and Buraldine Crumly Daykin and grew up deeply connected to the capital city’s community. Over the years, he became known for his reliability and quiet strength, leaving a legacy that touched generations. Springfield now mourns the loss of a man whose professional career and civic involvement enriched local traditions and institutions.
On June 28, 1959, Phillip married Mary Katherine Windmiller, beginning a marriage that lasted more than sixty years and served as the foundation of his personal joy. He worked for Ameren CIPS for twenty‑nine years, retiring in October 1998 as a Gas Training Associate. His careful instruction and technical knowledge ensured safe and efficient operations in the energy sector, supporting the infrastructure that powered homes and businesses across central Illinois.
Phillip’s faith was central to his life. He was an active member of Laurel United Methodist Church, participating faithfully in worship and fellowship. His commitments extended to Masonic St. Pauls Lodge 500, Springfield Consistory, and ANSAR Shrine, where he upheld principles of brotherhood and charity. He also volunteered for the Rail Classic Golf Tournament, contributing his time and enthusiasm to community events that fostered connection and philanthropy in Sangamon County.
Family was the heart of Phillip’s world. He was a loving father to daughters Carrie Daykin of Springfield and Sue (Curt) Volkmann of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and to sons David (Jodi) Daykin of Sherman and Steve (Jessica) Daykin of Plano, Texas. His joy multiplied through eleven grandchildren—Abigail Volkmann, Anna (Volkmann) Whitney (Grant Whitney), Alec Daykin, Daniel (Holly) Daykin, Quinn Daykin, Grant Daykin, Alyson Daykin, Trent Daykin, Kate Daykin, Gianna Calles, and Lyla Calles—and one great‑granddaughter, Murphy May Daykin. He also cherished his nephew Chip Horsley and many cousins. Phillip was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Carole Daykin Horsley, and his niece Christine.
Visitation will be held on December 22, 2025, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Laurel United Methodist Church. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., led by Rev. Dr. Kent Lolling, with burial at Oak Ridge Cemetery. These services invite family, friends, and neighbors to gather in remembrance, honoring Phillip’s life of faith and devotion within Springfield’s supportive community.
Phillip A. Daykin lived a life well lived, marked by decades of professional service at Ameren CIPS, active participation in Masonic and church organizations, volunteer dedication to local events, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy continues in the bonds he nurtured among children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchild, and in the steady reliability he offered to friends and neighbors. In this season of remembrance, his memory stands as a testament to faith, perseverance, and heartfelt connection within Springfield’s community life.
