It was August 2014 when Deion Sanders Jr. suddenly noticed the constant presence of a sturdy man alongside his father. Playing for the SMU Mustangs as a WR back then, to him, it was just another staff member who was entrusted to protect Coach Prime. But as a decade passed by—highlighted by the highest of highs, Jr’s father transforming into a formidable head coach, and Jr transitioning to a different career altogether—Lt. McGee’s allegiance to the Sanders family stayed put. But, as 2024 ended, the intricate relationship that the bodyguard had weaved through years, ended too…

On January 2, a devastating news reared its head on the Colorado Buffaloes’ official website. “The University of Colorado Athletic Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Lt. Evis McGee, who passed away on Thursday night,” the statement read. Lt. McGee wasn’t just a bodyguard; he was a cornerstone of the Sanders crew—a friend, a protector, and a constant source of support, which was evident from the weight of the words in the press release…

“LT was an integral member of Coach Prime’s security team, contributing his exceptional knowledge and experience to enhance the safety and security of CU Athletics. His presence made a lasting impact, and he will be deeply missed.” Evis McGee, a true Air Force legend, wasn’t just a fixture in Deion’s life. He was part of the Sanders family’s journey. He was there at Jackson State University, safeguarding Coach Prime during intense games and heated moments. When things got chippy, he and fellow bodyguard Rose were there, ready to step in, always ensuring that Deion could focus on the game without distractions.

Even when Deion made his bold move to Colorado, Lt. McGee followed, becoming an integral part of the Buffs’ transition. Deion’s loyalty shone through as he brought along Rose and Lt. McGee, the trusted bodyguards who had been with him through thick and thin. In Boulder, Lt. McGee served as the Athletic Operation Security from April 2023, to September 2024, before moving back to Jackson State with the same role. As of now, no other details surrounding his death have surfaced. 

Having said that, for Deion, his children, and the entire Buffs family, he was part of their extended tribe. So it wasn’t long before Deion Sanders Jr. made it a point to pay his regards to his “brother”. Sharing an X post, captioned, “Gonna miss you bro! Love ya forever nig… The soft spoken assassin 🫱🏽‍🫲🏾 The afterlife needed a bodyguard 🕊️🕊️”, the 31-year-old wrote, “RIP my brother,” on January 3. The love, however, extended far beyond as multiple Jackson State alums and students took to social media to pen down their heartbreak.

Currently a student at the university, Elizabeth Stamps recalled her personal accounts of Evis. “Definitely threw us for a loop with this one 🥺💔,” the post on Facebook began. “My family knew Evis Mcgee (We called em LT) made sure I was straight from the time I started working with football and on after ! Whether we were in Jackson or Colorado, LT came through ! Then we came to find out he was our cousin. Always checked up on me and made sure I stayed on the path to bring successful at making my dreams come true. Literally one of the most caring individuals that you could ever meet and surround yourself with. You’re definitely going to be missed LT.” 

These words carry the weight of countless shared memories, from game days to personal milestones.

The Colorado Buffaloes coach also paid him his respect with a heartfelt note…

Coach Prime mourns Lt. McGee

Bucky paid his respects on social media, and so did his dad, Deion Sanders. The Buffs head coach reshared a story with the caption, “In loving memory of Evis McGee 🕊️.” In the obituary post, featuring a photo of Evis McGee alongside him, Coach Prime shared heartfelt words: “Lt. McGee was one of the most loyal and faithful men that I’ve had the pleasure of working with. His consistency & commitment to his family, friends, and faith was truly commendable. LT will be missed. God Bless his wife and kids.”

The bond between Coach Prime and Lt. McGee went far beyond work. It was in the little things—the moments that created lasting friendships. From helping Deion through his leg injury recovery to lending a hand around the house after surgeries, Evis, along with fellow bodyguard Officer Rose, was there for more than just security. He showed up because he cared.

Even FOX Sports NFL Insider Jordan Schultz left a tribute on the CU Buffs obituary post, writing, “Prayers up for the McGee family and the entire Colorado community 🙏🙏.” As social media fills with condolences, Lt. McGee’s life is celebrated through the cherished memories he leaves behind. McGee leaves behind four kids and his wife.