Hayden Phillips born on September 30, 1997, was killed 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 Russell County High School, 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 Russell County 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 is preceded in death by Grandfather Phillip Gadberry, Grandmother Becky Antle, Grandparents Joe and Inis Philips. His special aunt Betty Burris, and a host of uncles and aunts. He is survived by his wife, Jordan, his three sons, Kason, Knox, Konnor. As well as mother Robin Phillips, and father Larry “Homer” Phillips, sister Heather Begley (Trooper Billy Begley), Nieces and Nephews: Bentley, John, Mia, Raley Grace.
Funeral service will be 12:00 p.m. Sunday, October 4, 2026, at E.A. Diddle Arena Located at 1605 Avenue of Champions, Bowling Green, KY 42101. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Living Hope Baptist Church located at 1805 Weston Street, Bowling Green, KY 42104. There will be no visitation prior to the Funeral Service on Sunday at E.A. Diddle Arena.
If you would like to support the family you can make donations to the Kentucky State Police Foundation www.kspfoundation.org This is the only donation outlet that has been approved by the family.