of Little Rock, AR
May 18, 1940 - January 9, 2026
Milan Philip ''Phil'' Bartos Jr. was born on May 18, 1940, in Waco, Texas, to Milan Philip Bartos Sr. and Ruth ''Ruthie'' Beatrice Todaro Bartos. Phil was married to Janet Starkey on June 19, 1999. Their marriage was marked by companionship, mutual support, and enduring commitment, They became members of Second Presbyterian Church in 2005 before moving from Conway to Little Rock, Arkansas.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Russell ''Rusty'' Bartos. Phil is survived by his wife, Janet Bartos; his children: Milan Philip (Tonya) Bartos III, and their children, Britney and Kaitlyn; Stacy Ann Baugh, and her children, Cooper and Hudson; Christopher Curt Bartos, and his children, Brianna, Cassidy, and Dylan; Anne-Marie (Michael) Braga, and their children, Luciana and Dominic; Benjie Ruth Bartos and Jacquelyn (Kevin) Yarbrough and their daughter Anna; and the mother of his five children, Darla Sue Prudom Bartos. Family was central to Phil's life, and he took great pride in his children and grandchildren. He carried a strong sense of family, responsibility, and pride in his roots throughout his life.
Phil grew up in Waco, surrounded by a large, loving Italian family. He attended the University of Texas at Austin and graduated from Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business in 1962 with a Bachelor's in Business Administration. His education laid the foundation for a successful career marked by leadership, integrity, and a global perspective.
In 1963, following his college years, Phil served 6 years in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant. His service reflected his commitment to leadership and serving his country and others. That same year, Phil began his professional career at Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) in 1963, where his leadership, strong social skills and insight led to steady advancement, eventually rising to the position of President of Duns Marketing Services.
In 1964 at the beginning of his career, Phil married Darla. Together they built a family and lived throughout the United States before being transferred overseas to South Africa and the Netherlands, introducing them to other cultures, having a profound impact on their five children. Phil opened D&B's first office in Johannesburg during the height of Apartheid and as the Managing Director, promoted Black South Africans into supervisory positions for the first time. Phil was passionate about social justice and consistently fought for the rights of others, especially those without a voice.
After a successful 25-year career with D&B, Phil joined Acxiom Corporation in Conway. A D&B mentor advised him to ''always retire TO something, not FROM something'' and he took those words to heart. In 1994, during his time with Acxiom as a Vice President, Phil began teaching marketing as an adjunct professor at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA). He retired from corporate life in 1995 and transitioned to a full-time position there, where he mentored countless students. Guiding them in both their professional and personal growth, he earned a reputation as a beloved professor and received numerous awards voted by students. During his two decades at UCA, Phil became project director of a market economy development program for Russian universities, funded by the Eurasia Foundation. He also served as a pro-bono consultant for minority-owned small businesses and served on multiple university committees, reflecting his commitment to service, equity, collaboration, and institutional leadership. After retiring from education in 2015, Phil continued his lifelong commitment to helping others and used his warmth and compassion as a ''professional'' volunteer at Baptist Health Medical Center in Little Rock.
Phil was deeply involved in numerous civic and community organizations. Most important to him were the Sales and Marketing Executives associations in multiple states; the Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County; the UCA Theatre Foundation; Making Kids Count; the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce; the Conway Regional Medical Center Foundation Board; the Metro Little Rock Alliance; Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) of Conway; and St. Joseph's Annual Bazaar.
Phil will be remembered with respect and affection for his kindness, his wisdom and his moral courage. He made an impact on countless lives, and his legacy lives on through his family; former students, co-workers, employees; and the many communities he served across the globe.
A Heavenly Birthday Celebration of Phil's life will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Second Presbyterian Church, 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phil's memory to the Bartos Family Scholarship Fund at the University of Central Arkansas Foundation, the Arkansas Food Bank, the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, the Little Rock Compassion Center, Meals on Wheels through CareLink, The Alzheimer's Foundation of America or Plant a Tree Memorial at www.alivingtribute.org or multiple trees at www.plantmemorialtree.com.
And finally, Phil would want to encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote.
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25 Condolence(s)
Steven Zeltmann
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Phil was an amazing guy. He positively impacted so many people at UCA, including me. When I think of all of the people I have worked with through the years, no-one was quite like Phil. In my opinion, Phil was a great example of a successful human being. I wish there was a way to make more people like him.
Joe Cangelosi
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Phil Bartos was a good friend. I remember the earliest days of when he was at UCA when we were still in Burdick Hall. Phil inspired me and gave valuable advice, especially when I first became a dept chair. Anytime I had a question, I'd go talk the issues out with Phil. I will miss him and wish I had gone to visit him in Little Rock over the past few years. I will always be thankful for the time I had the privilege of spending with Phil Bartos.
Miranda Rodgers
Thursday, January 22, 2026
Mr. Bartos was one of my professors at UCA. He was one of my favorites and one that I remember most during my time there. I am sorry to hear of his passing and send my condolences to his family.
Susan Garrett
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Phil was one of my favorite members. He always came in to the Little Rock Athletic Club with a smile and positive attitude! He made a positive impact on all the staff members here at the club. We all miss his consistent attendance. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Susan Garrett-Member Services LRAC
Mark McMurtrey
Monday, January 19, 2026
I join my fellow UCA colleagues in saying that Phil was an outstanding man, professor, mentor, and colleague. I came to UCA in 2002 and enjoyed many years of working with him. His students adored him and he was a walking encyclopedia of business knowledge. I vividly remember attending his retirement reception and we were sad to see him go. He always bragged on his children and was such a professional, kind, responsible, and warm human being. Know that all of us at UCA are praying with you and send our sincere condolences. There are just not enough people like Phil in this world anymore, it seems. God Bless the Family.
Gabriel and Jo Esteban
Sunday, January 18, 2026
Janet, Our deepest sympathies and prayers. Phil helped us immensely when I joined UCA in 2001. He introduced me to the business community and became a friend and an inspiration. We will always remember him for his infectious smile and upbeat attitude towards life. We still keep in touch with quite a few people in Arkansas because of Phil.
Tish carter
Sunday, January 18, 2026
My dear Aunt Janet it is with great sorrow that this has happened! I wish I had the right words to comfort you just know that I love you and miss you greatly! My deepest condolences to all your family and know that Phil is resting peacefully with our Lord and Savior now and forever
Carson Sanders
Sunday, January 18, 2026
Mary-Catherine Flanagin Glover
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Mr. Barto's always had a smile on his face and had time to stop and visit! I had so much respect for him while he was in Conway. Praying for each family member.🙏🏻❤️
Nancy Dunaway
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Janet, I am so sorry it was time for Phil to go but glad he was released from his struggle for these last years. I know he’s up there watching over you and will live on in your heart for always. He was so smart and so sweet and y’all had a beautiful friendship… I watched as it blossomed into a beautiful marriage! I’m thinking of you and Jacqueline and sending y’all love and hugs. Phil was an amazing man and left a huge legacy of accomplishments behind. He was a fabulous teacher and mentor to so many and they will always remember his kindness and generosity. I loved my friendship with him and always enjoyed our conversations. I’m thankful to have crossed paths with him. I love you and hope we can connect again soon. Love , Nancy
Hatim smouni
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Dr Bartos will be missed. I was one of his “international “ student and always enjoyed his classes and fairness towards everyone. He shared not only textbook materials but professional experience with us which made it interesting and valuable to the real world. Recently I would run into him at the Starbucks on Cantrell when I stopped there and he was reading his papers and always saying encouraging worlds and checking on my professional success. He will be dearly missed and what a great human being and teacher he was. Thank you Phil.
Mary-Catherine Flanagin Glover
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Mr. Barto's always had a smile on his face and had time to stop and visit! I had so much respect for him while he was in Conway. Praying for each family member.🙏🏻❤️
Jennifer Gosnell-Sammons
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Benjie, Anne-Marie, and all the entire family- I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. He was such a fun & intelligent guy who made such an impact on the world, especially through the adventurous children he leaves behind. He & your mom were always so welcoming and I felt like I half lived with ya’ll in middle school on the weekends. I loved running into him at the fitness center in my adult years & he beamed with pride when I asked how you were all doing. Much love, prayers, & hugs -Jen
Jack Bell
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Janet I am so sorry for your loss of one of the finest people I have ever known. I have such wonderful memories of working with Phil on city issues and especially our time together on the Boys and Girls Club board. We really got to know each other on our exploratory trip to Las Vegas to meet with the Mabee Foundation. I have the utmost respect for Phil and admired his passion for the causes he undertook. Love and prayers to you and the family.
Don and Kay Bona
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Janet, We are so very sorry to hear of Phil’s passing. We always enjoyed our neighborly visits with you and Phil; however, we had no idea of all the many wonderful accomplishments he made during his lifetime!
Please know that Don and I are praying for our Sweet Jesus to cover you with his loving arms and give you the strength and mercy needed during the difficult times ahead. We are grateful for the many friends and family you have to help you.
With our love.
Jim Gibbons
Saturday, January 17, 2026
It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of my friend, Phil Bartos - a world class volunteer in the hospital program I oversaw at Baptist Health for many years. Not only was Phil a highly skilled, extremely personable volunteer, he was also a friend of untold wisdom. He genuinely cared about others. His presence will be sorely missed. Holding Phil’s family and all who loved him close to my heart in these days.
Mike Casey
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Phil was a great mentor and helped me immensely during my early years in administration at UCA. He was the only other person in the building at 5:00 am and we had ample opportunity to visit. He was a great man. My condolences to the family for your loss.
Doug Voss
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Janet and the Bartos Family,
I was so sad to learn of Phil's passing today. I worked with Phil in the UCA Marketing and Management Department from 2007 until his retirement. He is an amazing person, businessman, educator, and colleague. I still remember walking in the office every morning and seeing him in his chair reading the newspaper. He was always very encouraging and had such an infectious, positive personality. Phil will be missed. You are in our prayers.
Doug
Charles & Anne Hart Allen
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Dear Janet and Family, We do so regret to learn that we ALL have lost Phil from this earthly life! He was intelligent, kind, and such an amazing and fun person to know! We will miss him as a viable part of our church and community! Please remember that your Faith, your Family, and your Friends also are your sources of Peace, Strength, and Comfort. We look forward to visiting with you, soon. May the Peace of Christ be with each of you. With our love, Charles and Anne
Kathy Jackson
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Janet and all your families, Phil was a joy to be with especially when he fixed minestrone soup. I tried many times my efforts were never as successful as Phil’s. Phil will be missed and remembered by many friends.
Afke jimmink-van der Vis
Friday, January 16, 2026
I send you all my deepest condolences. I will remember Phil as a warm person with a lot of interest in all kind of things. I felt really at home in Conway at your house
Ron and Kay Fry
Thursday, January 15, 2026
We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. You’re in our thoughts and prayers.
Ron and Kay Fry
Joy Fuller
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Phil led a very interesting life! My heartfelt condolences to all of you.
Bob Willenbink
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Phil was a great friend and mentor to me. Anne Marie and Benji - I think of the both of you often and offer you my deepest sympaties. Phil was a great man!
Liz Parker
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Janet and all the kids. I am overwhelmed with sadness to hear of Phil’s passing. I cannot express how much of an impact he had on my life. From classes at UCA to his support of UCA Theatre to his inspiring conversations with me, I shall always be grateful. Sending all of you love and God’s Peace.