Philip “Dale” Nix

Sergeant Philip “Dale” Nix of the Greensboro Police Department in North Carolina was shot multiple times when he attempted to intervene in a crime that he witnessed while at a gas station. He confronted the suspects, who then opened fire on him. An off-duty Greensboro police officer and a Guilford County paramedic were able to render aid immediately, but tragically, Sergeant Nix succumbed to his wounds and died at the hospital on December 30, 2023 at the age of 50.

Nix was born in Greensboro, North Carolina, and raised by his mother, Sue, and father, Eddie, along with his brother, Dan. He grew up in a family of first responders and public safety professionals. He graduated from Smith High School and attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, earning a degree in English. Nix and his future wife, Kelly, went to high school together, but were introduced by a co-worker after graduation. Their respect and understanding of each other drew them together. They married and went on to have their precious son, William. Facing challenges at birth, Nix and Kelly pulled together for Will, being there for each other and for their son. Thankfully, all his issues were resolved.

After college, Nix became a 911 Telecommunicator, learning critical crisis response and de-escalation skills. In 2001, he graduated from the Greensboro Police Academy and began his career in the Greensboro PD. He served faithfully for 22 years, as a Financial Crimes Detective, Patrol Corporal, Patrol Sergeant and Police Training Officer. For the last six years, Nix was the Detective Sergeant of the Family Victims Unit, working with the Family Justice Center of Guilford County. He had a passion for serving victims of abuse and was a nationally recognized leader through his work with the FJC. He served as a team leader with the Greensboro PD’s honor guard and was a peer support member. His awards included the Greensboro Merchant Association’s Crime Prevention Award, the PD Superior Service Bar and an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate. He was loyal, caring, dedicated and protective. His life of service made a difference. Nix’s greatest love was for his family, Kelly and Will. They were a team who loved spending time together. The family has established a scholarship in Nix’s name at their son’s high school, in memory of a dedicated husband, father and public servant.

Sergeant Philip “Dale” Nix is survived by his wife of 20 years, Kelly, and his adoring son, William. He is also survived by his mother, Sue, his father, Eddie, his brother, Dan, and many other cherished family members.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage of the Nix family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.