Butler County Sheriff's Department mourns Lt. Brian Evans

Deputy Lt. Brian Evans, 46, was a natural born leader who always had his fellow officers’ backs, his co-workers recall. The dedicated officer died Saturday morning after a battle with cancer.

Deputy Lt. Derek House and former co-worker Cindy Bayer shared their thoughts and memories about Evans.

“Brian was an absolute amazing person to be around,” House shared. “Brian is one of the greatest men I’ve ever met. I’m beyond grateful to have had him in my life. Following in his father’s footsteps, Brian was born to be an officer, as officers of his stature are chosen by a higher power.

“Brian had a personality that instantly made you want to be his friend,” House added. “He loved to be surrounded by friends and family, and entertain them with laughter and amazing barbecue. His home was always open for us no matter the need, whether you want to talk, laugh, vent, play video games or listen to music, Brian had you covered.”

He continued, “I wouldn’t be the deputy I am today if it was not for the constant support and guidance I received for Brian on a daily basis. In our line of work he was the man amongst men. Brian was my friend, confidant and advisor but most importantly Lt. Brain Evans was my brother.”

While House worked with Evans at the time of his passing, Bayer was there when Evans started as a reserve office and she watched him throughout his career.

Bayer, whose careers span military veteran, EMT, a deputy and the Director of Social Services at The Manor, said, “I was honored to serve with Brian. We had such a good comraderie. He always had a smile on his face. He was a dedicated officer who served not only his county, but his fellow officers.”

When Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs announced Evan’s death, he said, “It is with a broken heart that we inform you of the death of Lt. Brian Evans. Brian passed away early Saturday after a long and hard-fought battle with cancer.”

Lt. Evans dedicated his adult life to serving the citizens of Butler County, working his way up from a reserve deputy to chief deputy, the sheriff said.

Evans followed in the footsteps of his father, retired Poplar Bluff Police Officer Jim Evans,

Dobbs added Evans “was a dedicated family man who adored his wife, children and grandchildren.”

Everyone who knew Brian loved him, Dobbs reminisced, and he brought joy into every room he entered.

“His passing leaves a huge void in the hearts of everyone at the sheriff’s office,” the sheriff said. “He was a wonderful person and faithful friend. I owe a great debt of gratitude to Brian for his friendship and contributions to the sheriff’s office.”

Arrangements for Lt. Evans services will be announced by Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral Home.