A beloved coach for the girls’ basketball team at East Sac High School, Jason T. Philips passed away on August 8, 2025, at the age of 55.
Born on April 16, 1970, Jason was a dedicated coach for the girls’ basketball team at East Sac High School for the past five seasons.
Jason Phillips was a father, a brother, a son, an uncle, and a friend to many. He is survived by his kids, son Taggart Phillips (Kayla), daughter Sydney Anne Phillips, and more.
His daughter, Sydney, updated her profile picture to one featuring him, writing:
💔 Dad, I will love you forever 🕊️
Sydney
Likewise, Kayla also changed her profile picture, writing, “We love you, Jason 🖤🕊️“
His love for his school and the girls he coached was clear to everyone who knew him.
When Jason cared about someone, he showed it; sometimes in ways that could seem tough, but always because he wanted to see them succeed.
As Coach Steiger said,
When he got mad at you, you would know it, but it was because he cared so deeply and wanted you to succeed so badly.
Jason wasn’t the easiest coach for everyone to get along with, but his honesty and straightforwardness earned him the respect of the team.
Despite receiving a coaching salary, Jason never spent the money on himself. He made sure it always went back into the program.
For example, he started the “Raider Crazies” to bring energy and excitement to the school.
During homecoming last year, he bought over 500 shirts for the elementary school students and teachers, all with his own money. He made sure that no one was left out, even if it meant sacrificing for others.
After attending an ISU volleyball camp with the team, Jason was the first person to reach out and ask how it went. He cared about every detail of his players’ lives and always looked for ways to make them better.
A memorial service for Jason will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Sac City, Iowa. Visitation will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the same location.
Jason will be laid to rest in the Ferguson Cemetery in Lake View, Iowa.
During this difficult phase, we pray for the strength of Jason’s family and friends.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Jason Philips!
