Hayden Phillips, 28, was born on September 30, 1997, the son of Larry "Homer" Phillips and Robin Phillips of Russell Springs, KY. Trooper Phillips passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026 in the line of duty.
Trooper H.W. Phillips has served the Kentucky State Police for 3 years and was a member of the graduating Cadet Class #103. He previously served the Glasgow Police Department and Russell Springs Police Department, serving as a K-9 handler. He also graduated from DOCJT Class #506. He is a graduate of the Russell County High School Class of 2016.
Hayden also served for the Eli and Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Departments, and served the National Foresty Department as both a firefighter and EMT. He served the community of Russell Springs as an EMT.
Hayden’s entire life is marked by complete dedication. He was dedicated to his wife, his children, His Lord Jesus Christ and the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. His dedication to his nation was profoundly displayed on the day prior to his death by installing a flagpole at his home, proudly flying the flag of this great nation.
His wife wants the world to know that Hayden lives. His life was not cut short. His life was not taken; his life was given. The Bible says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (John 15:13).” He like Christ, gave his life. He is as alive today as he has ever been and ever will be. He not only lives in heaven; his memory and presence shall live on in the lives of his three sons.
While grief is appropriate at this time, Jordan believes that living for him now must become the most important thing. Reflecting a life of dedication to your family, your community and the Lord Jesus Christ will be the best representation of the life that Hayden lived.
His impact will best be felt by the stories we continue to tell. His sons deserve to hear the stories so do not fail to tell them. Many of you reading this have been impacted by him, tell others.
Hayden would certainly want all of us to go out of our way to intentionally thank every first responder, every law enforcement officer of every agency. He truly is the greatest example of what a fully dedicated life of selfless service looks like.
Hayden was preceded in death by his grandfather, Phillip Gadberry; his grandmother, Becky Antle; his grandparents, Joe & Inis Philips; special aunt, Betty Burris; and a host of uncles & aunts.
SURVIVORS:
His wife: Jordan Phillips
3 sons: Kason, Knox, & Konnor Phillips
His mother: Robin Phillips of Russell Springs
His father: Larry “Homer” Phillips of Russell Springs
1 sister: Heather Begley & husband Trooper Billy Begley
Nieces & Nephews: Bentley, John, Mia, & Raley Grace
Funeral Service: 12:00pmCT on Sunday, October 4, 2026 at E.A. Diddle Arena,1605 Avenue of Champions, Bowling Green, KY.
Visitation: 10:00am-6:00pmCT on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Living Hope Baptist Church, 1805 Weston Street, Bowling Green, KY. There will be no visitation prior to the Funeral Service on Sunday at E.A. Diddle Arena.
Gov. Andy Beshear also ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff on Sunday in honor of Phillips.
