Joe D. Tippins
1926-2013
Joe Dean Tippins, 87, passed away on September 25, 2013, in Edmond, Okla. He was born on June 24, 1926, in Little Kansas, OK, to Henry Benjamin and Minnie Ellen Tippins. He and his family moved to California as part of the Dust Bowl exodus in 1932.
He returned to Arkansas and met the love of his life, Norva. Joe returned to California to work on aircraft to support the war effort. Norva joined Joe in California and they eloped to Yuma Arizona, and were married on November 2, 1945. They lived in Woodward, OK, where their three children were born. In 1953, the family moved to Gentry, Arkansas, where he farmed until moving to Tulsa, OK to work for American Airlines. He would eventually become owner of the Tulsa Safe and Lock Company until another move in 1962, took them to Edmond, Okla., and work with Diebold, Inc.
Joe retired in 1991, but he didn't quit working. Along with his wife and son, he started his own business, T&T Bank Lock & Key and continued working until his death. He was a faithful member of Edmond's First Baptist Church, for over 50 years, serving as a deacon, Sunday school leader, and member of Happy Timers.
He will be fondly remembered as a dependable friend, a loving husband, father and Papaw! Oh, how his grandchildren loved his homespun stories and hillbilly songs and sayings. He loved life, people, and tinkering with locks. He had a wonderful sense of humor and gave "epic" hugs to everyone, none could compare!
Joe leaves behind his devoted wife of 68 years Norva, son, Randy Tippins, of Edmond; daughters, Vicki Snow of Edmond; and Glenda Shilling (Gerald) of Garland, TX. His three wonderful grandchildren, Sydney Snow of Edmond, Katherine Shilling Seattle, WA and Jonathan Shilling, San Francisco, CA. Brother, Donald Tippins, Bakersfield, CA, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and six sisters.
Visitation will be held at Matthews Funeral Home, Sunday, September 29, from 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Funeral services are planned for Monday, September 30, at 1:00 pm at the First Baptist Church, Edmond, OK. Interment will be at Gracelawn Cemetery.
