Holly MatkinMemphis, TN – Germantown Police Department (GPD) Senior Patrol Officer Michael Evans died unexpectedly on Feb. 24.
The 36-year-old officer passed away in Memphis while off-duty, the GPD said in a press release the following day.
His exact cause of death was not released.
Officer Evans served in the U.S. Army for nearly nine years prior to his law enforcement career.
“He was a decorated infantryman completing two tours of duty in Iraq,” the GPD said.
He joined the police department in 2014.
“Officer Evans dedicated his life to serving others,” the GPD said. “His service to the Germantown community has been exemplary. He was a dedicated, compassionate, and courageous officer who was highly regarded by every member of the department.”
“Officer Evans had a passion for life and laughter, and he will be missed dearly by all who knew him,” the department added. “Please keep the Germantown Police Department family and the family of Officer Evans in your thoughts and prayers.”
Officer Evans served his community “with pure kindness and compassion,” his obituary read.
“He was born with a servant’s heart and a servant’s life he lived,” according to the tribute.
More than 600 people offered their condolences to Officer Evans’ family and the GPD in response to the department’s announcement.
“He was a great guy,” one person wrote. “He helped me install my car seat properly as a first time Dad. He had a few of his own and gave me some humorous tips on becoming a Dad. RIP and thank you for being such a stand up officer for our community.”
“I was Evans’ primary [field training officer],” another message read. “I had the honor of learning who this man was inside and out. He was a truly good man who served overseas and in our own community. My heart is completely shattered. I have no words. I pray that Jesus is holding his hand right now because he has done so much! I will definitely miss you my friend. Hold a spot for me in heaven!”
Several people wrote about what a joy it was to work alongside Officer Evans over the years.
“It was a privilege to have worked with you Evans. You were one of the most professional and kindhearted individuals I’ve known. You will be greatly missed by all of us,” one such note read.
Officer Evans leaves behind his wife of 15 years, Emily, and his four children, Jack, Emma, Ava, and Levi.
He is also survived by his father, stepmother, siblings, nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
Officer Evans was laid to rest on March 8.
Germantown #Police Senior Patrol Officer Michael Evans passed away yesterday, according to @GermantownPD. Evans, an Army Veteran, served the department since 2014. Our deepest condences go to the Evans family, @germantowntenn & the entire Law Enforcement community. pic.twitter.com/ImdavyN2aC
— News Talk (@NewsTalk989) February 25, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Germantown Police Department Senior Patrol Officer Michael Evans, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
