The Board of Directors of the Knoxville Panther Scholarship Foundation is announcing
the establishment of a new Endowed Scholarship in memory of Philip Smethers.Â
This scholarship will be awarded annually to a Knoxville High School graduate entering
their third or fourth year of college pursuing a career in pharmacy, veterinary
medicine/animal care or social work.
Philip grew up in Decatur, Illinois and worked as a pharmacy tech while attending St
Teresa High School. After graduation he attended Illinois State University before
transferring to Drake University to get his Pharmacy degree. He worked as a
pharmacist in Des Moines for many years before working in Knoxville. He loved the
area so much he moved to Knoxville where he made many friends and spent the last 25
years of his life.Â
Philip loved taking trips on his motorcycle, fishing, and the companionship of his 2 dogs,
Odessa and Shelby. His greatest joy was helping family, friends, and neighbors with
anything they needed. He was a great friend to all and generous with his talents. He
was on the board of Crisis Intervention Services and did many odd jobs to help support
their clients. Philip had a big heart and loving spirit.
The trustee of Philips estate is pleased to carry out his wish to help support future
Knoxville High School graduates as they pursue their educational dreams.
If you would like more information about the Knoxville Panther Scholarship Foundation,
go to the Foundation website at kpsfoundation.org. If you would like to learn more
about how you can help our graduates contact, Board President Curt Froyen by phone
at 641-891-7170 or by email at irishsciguy@hotmail.com.
