John Phipps, retired Yuma County Sheriff, passes away

YUMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) says retired Sheriff John Phipps has passed away.

YCSO says Phipps was "longtime member of the law enforcement community and a dear friend to many" throughout Yuma County.

He began his law enforcement career with YCSO back in 1962 when he served as a dispatcher in Parker, Arizona before he was transferred to Wellton, serving as the Resident Deputy, according to YCSO.

YCSO also adds Phipps was sworn in as Sheriff in 1981 after running the year before. He retired from his position in 1992, "having served three terms."

In a statement posted to social media, Sheriff Leon Wilmot said:

"Sheriff Phipps leaves behind a legacy that will live on within this agency forever. He was one of the finest men and mentors I have ever known, and I was fortunate enough in my career to have been hired by him as a deputy. It was truly an honor for all of us to know and work alongside such an extraordinary leader. His loyalty, unwavering dedication, personal sacrifice, and uncompromising standards of conduct helped shape the growth and development of the Yuma County Sheriff's Office."

Phipps is survived by his wife and two children.