Evans E. "Gene (Popo" Phillips

Evans E. Phillips (Gene), also known as "Popo" by his grandchildren, passed away at Iowa Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines on Monday, January 26, 2026, at the age of 87 years old. Gene was preceded in death by wife, Betty Phillips, parents Evans and Jane Phillips, son Jimmy "Tiger" Phillips, sister Judy Woods, brother Bob Phillips, stepdaughter Denise Potter, and granddaughter Kaylin Agee.

Gene is survived by his son Doug Phillips and his wife Jane, two grandsons Ryan Phillips, Kyle (Sarah) Phillips, and great-grandson Thomas "TJ" Phillips, stepdaughter Darcie Smith & step-grandsons Brian Agee, Michael and Matthew Potter, and great granddaughter Ella McCoy, as well as several brother and sister in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Gene graduated from North High School in 1956 and joined the U.S. Marine Corp and National Guard. Gene joined the Des Moines Fire Department in 1959 where he worked his way through the ranks, retiring after 37 ½ years as Assistant Chief.

After retiring from the Des Moines Fire Department, Gene was elected to the Des Moines City Council where he also served as Mayor Pro Tem. Gene continued his political career and was elected to the Polk County Board of Supervisors where he served as Board Chairman. Gene will be missed by his family and friends.

Gene supported numerous charitable organizations; therefore, the family asks that in lieu of flowers please make a donation to the charity of your choice in Gene's name.

Services will be held on Monday, February 2, 2026, with an hour of visitation starting at 11AM followed by a funeral service and Des Moines Fire Department Honors at Sunset Memorial Chapel (7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50321). Burial will take place after the service at Sunset Memorial Gardens adjacent to the chapel.