Michael Eugene Phillips was swept away in flood waters and killed in the line of duty on July 5, 2025.

Born on the U.S. Air Force base in Del Rio, Texas, Michael moved several times before his father retired and they settled in Orlando, Florida.

He married his high school sweetheart, Cecilia, and they remained married for 47 years.

He joined the Air Force, where he repaired and tested jet engines. After eight years, he earned a bachelor’s degree in electronics and went to work for Martin Marietta in Florida. In 1991, the Phillips family moved to Texas, and Michael spent the next 30 years working for the Marble Falls School District as maintenance and bonds and improvements director.

In 1995, he joined the Marble Falls Area Fire Department and dedicated his life to serving his community. He became passionate about firefighting. He obtained an EMT-Basic license and certifications in rope, trench, swiftwater rescue, and confined space rescue. He completed a bachelor’s degree in fire science and was appointed chief in 2016. A passionate educator, he held a Master Firefighter Commission, and a Level III Instructor certification. He trained and mentored countless firefighters all across Texas.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Cecilia, who served alongside him; their only daughter, Megan; her husband and their four children, who called him Super Pops; and his older sister, Debbie.

He lived with integrity and a desire to be of service to others and died doing what he was passionate about.

His legacy of service, sacrifice, and love will never be forgotten.