Phil Beauregard Obituary

Phil touched so many lives and we are all better people for the privilege and joy of having known him.

Phil brought happiness to all those around him and changed people's lives in profound ways. He radiated love and positivity, and in respect and appreciation of his life, we wish to emulate his ways in our own lives. We are better for having knowing him and forever thankful for what he provided to our family. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you and your family.
My parents, Yoshio and Yoshiko Neagari, who live in Japan, express their heartfelt condolences and, in lieu of flowers, have made a donation to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital as Phil would have wished.

Bear with me, as my heart aches and my words may fumble.
We are collectively experiencing a loss that none of us were prepared for and one that has been so difficult to process. A loss as immense as this, takes one´s breath away and brings life to an abrupt pause. The disbelief and refusal to accept Phil´s passing has been so heavily present for us all.
In this pause, I continually remind myself to breathe. I can hear Phil´s voice telling me to do so, in the effortless way he spoke, "just take a breath, that´s all you need to do, and be present with this moment." This moment is hard and this moment will last a long while. This moment will take strength and the courage to bring every joyful memory to the surface. It is these joyful memories that will keep his spirit alive and heal our pain.
My first memory of meeting Phil is of his barefoot feet in December, his soft smile admits the commotion, and his humble demeanor that brought a sense of ease. Over the years, I learned that no matter what month it was, Phil was barefoot and I absolutely loved that unique quality about him. It was what made him feel comfortable, but it was also his desire to feel the connection to the Earth beneath us and the gratitude we can feel from what is provided to us, something he once shared in conversation with me. We will all continue to cultivate Phil´s spiritual presence, his passionate teaching to find individual purpose, and his gentle reminders to practice becoming the best version of ourselves.
Phil was easy to love. He enjoyed making others smile, and was often laughing at his own little jokes that we sometimes didn´t catch. He enjoyed sharing his creativity with others, had an incredible sense of adventure, and had a spirit so full that it was inspiring.
I was often comforted by the way Phil could easily illuminate a space. I have four wonderful young children and no matter how wild they would become at times, Phil´s gentle smile remained as he would sit back and enjoy their energy. He allowed them to be children without limits for a moment, swinging his barefoot from side to side and appreciating each one of them. He encouraged me to relax and enjoy those moments as well.
Most of all, I watched Phil bring the life back out of my mother and for that I am so thankful. He reminded her to be free and spontaneous, to seek adventure, and to build the self discipline it takes to thrive within her highest element. The strength and joyfulness he brought to her is what will carry her through this most difficult moment, as it will to all of us who have been deeply affected by his passing.
My heart is heavy and my heart is full.

Phil was the carrier of a kind and adventurous soul to which I felt an unusually strong spiritual connection after only meeting him three brief moments over the course of a week. I wish I could have spent many more years getting to know him better, receiving his wisdom, and having the chance to express my appreciation to him. He filled my mother with a brightness that was so illuminating, a renewed strength so apparent, and a childlike lust for life so full of passion that he gained my respect, trust and admiration immediately. I have come to discern, without a fragment of doubt, that, during his unfortunately short journey on this Earth, he succeeded in bringing great joy, health and inspiration to countless individuals. May his spirit rest at peace and his presence enter the universe as a light for all to cherish. May we all emulate his positive nature and generosity, and be better for having known him.

My sympathy and love to Phil's family. Phil's successful career was a tribute to his compassion and his energy always focused on his students. As a long time, karate and Tai Chi student of Phil's, he taught me self-confidence and self-esteem. What he gave me will last a lifetime.

Dear Phil, you have always been a humbled man. You passionately cared for others and would lend a helping hand and a listening ear at a moment's notice. I admired your insightfulness and intelligence and your frequent dozes of "philosophies" you would share with me. One of my favorites: "Life is a present, take it one day at a time. We can't go back to yesterday or predict tomorrow, so let's be in the present together". I am so grateful our days together were filled with laughter, adventure, and excitement. I reflect on how you thought that life was radically amazing and often expressed "---is this what retirement is all about? BUT remember, I am NOT retired!" I will continue our ritual and sit on the front porch rocker looking into the night sky waiting for your sign, any sign. I miss you dearly. Rest In Peace Phil.

Though not what we could call close - I will always
remember those xmas after noons in the attic bedroom of the boys checking out the new toys.

I´ve known master Phil since I was 6 years old testing for my yellow belt. He was the highlight of every tournament and test, and he had an energy that was absolutely radiant. Now I am a second degree black belt and I owe so much of my success and happiness in my life to him. Masters Studios and Charleston will not be the same without him. I will make sure at least some of his teachings of kindness and purpose live through the ages. Thank you for everything Master.

With sincere sympathy to all in the Beauregard family.

No words will ease the hearts of Phil's family, friends, students or those who's lives were touched by this wonderful man. Phil in so many ways brought joy to learning and and a better way to lives ones life. We will all remember him as an amazing human being. May the memories life on in all our hearts.

We are saddened to learn of Phil´s passing. Deepest sympathy to all the family members.

Saddened today by the news of Master Phil's death. I studied for a few years under this bright and caring man. Unlike other's i have studied under, Phil approached the art from the aspect of good health and a mental discipline. He loved kids and set many on the good path. Smart and funny with a warm laugh, his death is a loss to the community.

Forever grateful for having you as my sensei.