James Warren Tipton, Jr. (Jimmy), of Big Spring, TX passed away at Denton Presbyterian Hospital on June 3, 2011 at age 53. He was born on April 14, 1958 to Sara and Dr. James Warren Tipton, Sr. in Memphis, TN. The family moved to Big Spring, TX in 1961 when he was 2 years old.Continue Reading
James Warren Tipton, Jr. (Jimmy), of Big Spring, TX passed away at Denton Presbyterian Hospital on June 3, 2011 at age 53. He was born on April 14, 1958 to Sara and Dr. James Warren Tipton, Sr. in Memphis, TN. The family moved to Big Spring, TX in 1961 when he was 2 years old. Jimmy graduated from Big Spring High School in 1976, Texas A & M University as a member of the Corps of Cadets in 1981, and then received a Master's degree in International Finance from Sul Ross University.He married Cathy Mays in January of 1986 with whom he had two children, Jessica Mays Tipton and James Warren Tipton, III (Trey) whom were the joy of his life.The people that loved him most appreciated his uncanny ability to find joy and contentment in the simple pleasures of life. Pleasures which included Sunday afternoon drives with his family, star lit nights, any music ballad you could snap your fingers to from Muddy Waters to Deep Purple, the chill of ice cold Balmorhea water on a hot summer day, and occasionally, a frozen bag of mini-snickers. He considered himself a travel connoisseur. As long as he had a map (and a good pair of glasses in later years) there was no place he was afraid to go: train trips to the tip of southern Mexico, ski trips to Colorado, solo motorcycle adventures to Sturgis, South Dakota, and day trips to Balmorhea in his sea blue 1963 Chevrolet Bel Air (infamously named "Sea Mist") that he spent many hours rebuilding himself. The best trips, though, were the ones that started on a whim, usually at 3:00 AM, simply because "the best way to get out of town is to just get up and go." He comes from a family of great story tellers, of which he was no exception. His capacity for wit, recognition of the ironic, and his infinite knowledge of trivia always made for amazing, interesting, and thought provoking conversations. Each of his tales could quickly digress into another, his audience always aware that the ending of the original story may never be known.He loved practical jokes, and all of his friends can relay multiple instances of this truth. One of his biggest battles was fighting being misunderstood. He was a gentle giant with a sweet spirit, especially for those in need. He was the guy on a Harley wearing a Hawaiian shirt, khaki shorts, and a big smile. He had big dreams for his children and grand-children and will forever be watching them unfold.He is survived by his parents-Sara and Dr. James Warren Tipton Sr. (Tony) of Big Spring, TX; a sister-Diane Tipton Veirs of Santa Fe, NM; a daughter- Jessica Tipton Williams and her husband Jace E. Williams of Big Spring, TX; a granddaughter-Ana Marie Williams of Big Spring, TX; a son-Trey Tipton of Big Spring, TX; two nephews-Ty Tipton and John Veirs; one niece Crystal Veirs; two uncles-Samuel Malone of Nashville, TN and Dr. King Tipton of Ft Myers, Florida; an aunt-Barbara Baker of Milan, TN; and a varied collection of cousins and good friends.He was preceded in death by his brother-Steven M. Tipton of Big Spring, TX; maternal grandparents- Francis and Dr. Frank Malone of Clarksville, TN and paternal grandparents-James and Hilda Tipton of Milan, TN.Graveside funeral services will be at 10:30 AM Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at the Peace Chapel at Trinity Memorial Park with Rev. Craig Holstedt, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, officiating.Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Big Spring. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com,
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Holly Wood
left a message on July 12, 2011:
I am so shocked and saddened by Jimmy's name on the Silver Taps list as a fellow Class of '81. He and Cathy were our best friends when we lived in Midland. We enjoyed the Terlingua chili cook-off, Big Bend and scuba diving lessons together. Cathy and I worked together at Texaco. My husband, Deen and I were just reminiscing about our fun friendship with Jimmy and Cathy when I read the news. We are very sad and are praying for Jessie and Trey and his whole family. He lived his life so fully and honorably. He truly was a gentle giant and we will all rejoice together someday on the other side!
Jim Purcell
left a message on June 19, 2011:
Jimmy and I grew up together. We went to church and we were in Scouts together. I lost touch with him years ago and just got back in touch with him last year. I called him and we talked for about two hours.We talked about days past ant our current lives. We cured most of the worlds problems during that conversation. Sadly I did not stay in close contact with him, though I thought of him often. It was such a shock to learn of his death. Jimmy, you will be missed, I will remember you and all the good times we had together.
Henry Owen
left a message on June 11, 2011:
Jimmy and I shared the back row of "photo time" in elementary school along with Pacca Ford since we were the tallest in the class. Jimmy had a big heart and always made us laugh. In Jr High he mixed his food together from whatever was on his plate and tried to get one of the younger kids to eat it. Mrs. Hail made him eat it. He always like to play jokes. Jimmy will be missed and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Cynthia Standard Weeks
left a message on June 8, 2011:
Jimmy was my friend since elementary school. We didn't see each other often, but he always knew me... by my maiden name. I think he knew my married name, but preferred to call me by my maiden name. I can still hear him say my name and the funny look he always would have - I think knowing he was calling me by my maiden name purposely. Jimmy was a great person from elementary school through adulthood. It is hard to imagine my long time friend is gone. God's Peace to Jimmy and his family.
Dianne Sawyer Frederick
left a message on June 7, 2011:
Dearest Dr. Tipton, Sara, & Diane, So many fond memories of Big Spring of such a long time ago. I remember well, babysitting Diane, Jimmy and Steve. Jimmy was an energetic, spirited and thoughtful young man. My heart breaks for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Andre Clark
left a message on June 7, 2011:
Sara, I am so sorry for the loss of your precious son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and you family. Hugs, Andre
Mark Nolte
left a message on June 7, 2011:
First time I ever met Jimmy, I was standing in the front room of KBST in the late 80's. Jim rode up to see his frend Dave on his A and M purple Harley in a classic look for Jim. Bahama style shirt, short pants, a thin long ponytail and a pair of rayban glasses. I was packing my tools as one of the engineers at Kbest and he asked me question about how the Ionosphere works. Jim and I became quick friends and I learned to accept I was not the smartest guy in the room if I were going to hang with Jim. Our more than twenty year friendship included a successful business venture. I asked Jim to be my resident MBA and go with me on a driving trip to Tampa. I was fileing applications for new AM stations and Jim says Juneu Alaska its a micro environment! It became the first of those projects to actully make money thanks to Jims vision. Jim was inspired by others as much as he inspired us. He taught me how important it is to stay focused on the big picture. multiplication of markets he would say. He even helped me hand mix concrete for a tower on an 11000 foot mountian top in Nevada. Jim had a nack for making life so memorable. He drove the truck out of gas on that trip. After a dozen years of conversation Jim opened up to me one day in that Rock house of his and said to me Ya know I know you have wanted to have THE conversation so with my permission...go ahead. Jim accepted that God had a plan for his life. He greatest joy in his life was truely his family. He put his whole heart and soul into his family. He taught me that for all the places or things its only those who love you that matter. Happly travels Jimmy, we loved you and we will see you soon. Mark Nolte
Nancy Lester
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Everyone who knew Jimmy apparently loved and admired him, echoing the above tributes. Jimmy was a dear friend to my children and my grandchildren. He will be sorely missed by many, but my sympathy especially is with his parents and his children.He lives on in our hearts and memories.
Doyle Phillips
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Will sorely miss your messages and reports on life in Big Spring, Jaime. Sail on with all these messages of love from those who sign your guestbook.
Eddie Vela
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Jimmy and I haven't been in contact for many years, but we were good friends in high school. Even then he was a prince of a man. When I met up with him again at one of our high school reunions, I was struck about how little he seemed to have aged. He was still the same funny, witty, and gentle person I knew in high school. I am profoundly saddened by his death and send my condolences to his family.
Dalton & Carol Lewis
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Dr. & Mrs. Tipton, Diane, and family. We are very sorry for your loss. Jimmy was a special person. Even though we weren't the closest of friends, and we didn't spend that much time together, I felt like he was a brother to me. I will miss him very much. A few times we got to ride our Harley's together and I would give him a hard time about riding that old bike, which he loved. Actually I was jealous that he had such a classy motorycle. He made me feel good about myself. I don't know what happened, but I hope that he didn't suffer too much. God bless you all, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Aubrey Weaver, Jr.
left a message on June 6, 2011:
I am a crushed can. Where to begin. The good things which have been written here and spoken by mutual friends "Brilliant" "Kindest and gentlest" "Prince of a man. The world is a darker place without Jim." are on the mark. It goes without saying Jimmy loved his children and his family totally. And how could anyone be a better friend or a more noble person? I don't think it is possible. Jimmy must have have been an adventurer-explorer Renaissance man in a past life or have been so genetically predispositioned. He may have been born 300 years too late--or too early. I latched on to my adoptive big brother/ marvelous friend more than 23 years ago and won't let go of the laugh til I cried humor, "PowerSoaks" in Lake Thomas, spontaneous drives, star gazing, classic movies, and philosophical discussions. Love you buddy, Sage of Settles. Au revoir (not goodbye). "Now, Voyager, sail thou forth, to seek and find."
J.R. Martinez
left a message on June 5, 2011:
Jimmy was he greatest man,friend, and neighbor I have ever known or could ever have. I have lived next door to jimmy for 7 yrs and it saddens me to no end to know he is no longer with us, Jimmy didnt have a mean bone in his body was always cheerfull no matter how he was feeling or what the situation on behalf of my family Jr.Dora,Jasmine,Michael and Aliyah martinez. we wish him the best afterlife he is one man who deserves it. our condolences to the family. i am glad to say he was my friend and my neighbor we are going to miss you to no end.
Rob Wrinkle
left a message on June 5, 2011:
I loved this man, Jimmy Tipton. I regret that I was unable to be with him more in the most recent years. He had a brilliant and creative mind. He had a good heart and was honest to a T, a quality that is hard to find in this world. He was a great story teller. He saw the world much as I see it. He knew the harsh realities, however he would always encourage me to do things that I felt were beyond reach. We had some wonderful experiences together which I will always cherish. He was never really given the respect he deserved. He knew how the world worked. He was always curious. He was a far better man than I am. I am so god damn sad about this. Jimmy was my brother. I will miss him.
Daniel Simmons
left a message on June 5, 2011:
A candle was lit by Daniel Simmons on 2011/06/05
david wrinkle
left a message on June 5, 2011:
Jim was my best friend for 45 years. We had so many good times together. Everything in my home..seems to remind me of Jimmy. I enjoyed Seamist and our trips to Mexico..several times and our scuba diving....and even our attempts to loose weight and long walks to Hermans back in the early 70's. Jim is a part of my family. I will miss his almost daily emails and many memories. What a memory too! I am still in Shock..and people have called all weekend wondering if I knew and how I am taking the news. I think I am in denail..as his spirit will always be with us. I know how please he was with "Trey" and Jessie and grand baby..and Jessica's new life. He loved his mom and dad so much. and always wanted things to be better for everyone. he never had a personal hidden agenda...as you could always count on his advice and never gave advice with any hint of personal gain. He was sensitive to others and modest and private. He was a living example of a good person. His body was giving out and he gave me hints of that for several years. I had no idea how serious though this latest deal was with the hernia. I just guess it was his time to go. I am so saddened by the news as all of us WRINKLEs are taking this very hard. We are angry and yet grateful that Jim is not suffering and did not suffer..or have his so called 'SBDO" slow death by obesity..actually his death was quite fast.. It is still just not soaking in that he is gone..as I was visiting with him and he with dan..(my dan) just on Monday. We are doing our best to be strong for him and his family...by trying to get to big spring. Jim. I guess we can email on the other side. we still have our memories ...to laugh again at some day. Sincerely, Dave Wrinkle
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Holly Wood
left a message on July 12, 2011:
I am so shocked and saddened by Jimmy's name on the Silver Taps list as a fellow Class of '81. He and Cathy were our best friends when we lived in Midland. We enjoyed the Terlingua chili cook-off, Big Bend and scuba diving lessons together. Cathy and I worked together at Texaco. My husband, Deen and I were just reminiscing about our fun friendship with Jimmy and Cathy when I read the news. We are very sad and are praying for Jessie and Trey and his whole family. He lived his life so fully and honorably. He truly was a gentle giant and we will all rejoice together someday on the other side!
Jim Purcell
left a message on June 19, 2011:
Jimmy and I grew up together. We went to church and we were in Scouts together. I lost touch with him years ago and just got back in touch with him last year. I called him and we talked for about two hours.We talked about days past ant our current lives. We cured most of the worlds problems during that conversation. Sadly I did not stay in close contact with him, though I thought of him often. It was such a shock to learn of his death. Jimmy, you will be missed, I will remember you and all the good times we had together.
Henry Owen
left a message on June 11, 2011:
Jimmy and I shared the back row of "photo time" in elementary school along with Pacca Ford since we were the tallest in the class. Jimmy had a big heart and always made us laugh. In Jr High he mixed his food together from whatever was on his plate and tried to get one of the younger kids to eat it. Mrs. Hail made him eat it. He always like to play jokes. Jimmy will be missed and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Cynthia Standard Weeks
left a message on June 8, 2011:
Jimmy was my friend since elementary school. We didn't see each other often, but he always knew me... by my maiden name. I think he knew my married name, but preferred to call me by my maiden name. I can still hear him say my name and the funny look he always would have - I think knowing he was calling me by my maiden name purposely. Jimmy was a great person from elementary school through adulthood. It is hard to imagine my long time friend is gone. God's Peace to Jimmy and his family.
Dianne Sawyer Frederick
left a message on June 7, 2011:
Dearest Dr. Tipton, Sara, & Diane, So many fond memories of Big Spring of such a long time ago. I remember well, babysitting Diane, Jimmy and Steve. Jimmy was an energetic, spirited and thoughtful young man. My heart breaks for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Andre Clark
left a message on June 7, 2011:
Sara, I am so sorry for the loss of your precious son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and you family. Hugs, Andre
Mark Nolte
left a message on June 7, 2011:
First time I ever met Jimmy, I was standing in the front room of KBST in the late 80's. Jim rode up to see his frend Dave on his A and M purple Harley in a classic look for Jim. Bahama style shirt, short pants, a thin long ponytail and a pair of rayban glasses. I was packing my tools as one of the engineers at Kbest and he asked me question about how the Ionosphere works. Jim and I became quick friends and I learned to accept I was not the smartest guy in the room if I were going to hang with Jim. Our more than twenty year friendship included a successful business venture. I asked Jim to be my resident MBA and go with me on a driving trip to Tampa. I was fileing applications for new AM stations and Jim says Juneu Alaska its a micro environment! It became the first of those projects to actully make money thanks to Jims vision. Jim was inspired by others as much as he inspired us. He taught me how important it is to stay focused on the big picture. multiplication of markets he would say. He even helped me hand mix concrete for a tower on an 11000 foot mountian top in Nevada. Jim had a nack for making life so memorable. He drove the truck out of gas on that trip. After a dozen years of conversation Jim opened up to me one day in that Rock house of his and said to me Ya know I know you have wanted to have THE conversation so with my permission...go ahead. Jim accepted that God had a plan for his life. He greatest joy in his life was truely his family. He put his whole heart and soul into his family. He taught me that for all the places or things its only those who love you that matter. Happly travels Jimmy, we loved you and we will see you soon. Mark Nolte
Nancy Lester
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Everyone who knew Jimmy apparently loved and admired him, echoing the above tributes. Jimmy was a dear friend to my children and my grandchildren. He will be sorely missed by many, but my sympathy especially is with his parents and his children.He lives on in our hearts and memories.
Doyle Phillips
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Will sorely miss your messages and reports on life in Big Spring, Jaime. Sail on with all these messages of love from those who sign your guestbook.
Eddie Vela
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Jimmy and I haven't been in contact for many years, but we were good friends in high school. Even then he was a prince of a man. When I met up with him again at one of our high school reunions, I was struck about how little he seemed to have aged. He was still the same funny, witty, and gentle person I knew in high school. I am profoundly saddened by his death and send my condolences to his family.
Dalton & Carol Lewis
left a message on June 6, 2011:
Dr. & Mrs. Tipton, Diane, and family. We are very sorry for your loss. Jimmy was a special person. Even though we weren't the closest of friends, and we didn't spend that much time together, I felt like he was a brother to me. I will miss him very much. A few times we got to ride our Harley's together and I would give him a hard time about riding that old bike, which he loved. Actually I was jealous that he had such a classy motorycle. He made me feel good about myself. I don't know what happened, but I hope that he didn't suffer too much. God bless you all, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Aubrey Weaver, Jr.
left a message on June 6, 2011:
I am a crushed can. Where to begin. The good things which have been written here and spoken by mutual friends "Brilliant" "Kindest and gentlest" "Prince of a man. The world is a darker place without Jim." are on the mark. It goes without saying Jimmy loved his children and his family totally. And how could anyone be a better friend or a more noble person? I don't think it is possible. Jimmy must have have been an adventurer-explorer Renaissance man in a past life or have been so genetically predispositioned. He may have been born 300 years too late--or too early. I latched on to my adoptive big brother/ marvelous friend more than 23 years ago and won't let go of the laugh til I cried humor, "PowerSoaks" in Lake Thomas, spontaneous drives, star gazing, classic movies, and philosophical discussions. Love you buddy, Sage of Settles. Au revoir (not goodbye). "Now, Voyager, sail thou forth, to seek and find."
J.R. Martinez
left a message on June 5, 2011:
Jimmy was he greatest man,friend, and neighbor I have ever known or could ever have. I have lived next door to jimmy for 7 yrs and it saddens me to no end to know he is no longer with us, Jimmy didnt have a mean bone in his body was always cheerfull no matter how he was feeling or what the situation on behalf of my family Jr.Dora,Jasmine,Michael and Aliyah martinez. we wish him the best afterlife he is one man who deserves it. our condolences to the family. i am glad to say he was my friend and my neighbor we are going to miss you to no end.
Rob Wrinkle
left a message on June 5, 2011:
I loved this man, Jimmy Tipton. I regret that I was unable to be with him more in the most recent years. He had a brilliant and creative mind. He had a good heart and was honest to a T, a quality that is hard to find in this world. He was a great story teller. He saw the world much as I see it. He knew the harsh realities, however he would always encourage me to do things that I felt were beyond reach. We had some wonderful experiences together which I will always cherish. He was never really given the respect he deserved. He knew how the world worked. He was always curious. He was a far better man than I am. I am so god damn sad about this. Jimmy was my brother. I will miss him.
Daniel Simmons
left a message on June 5, 2011:
A candle was lit by Daniel Simmons on 2011/06/05
david wrinkle
left a message on June 5, 2011:
Jim was my best friend for 45 years. We had so many good times together. Everything in my home..seems to remind me of Jimmy. I enjoyed Seamist and our trips to Mexico..several times and our scuba diving....and even our attempts to loose weight and long walks to Hermans back in the early 70's. Jim is a part of my family. I will miss his almost daily emails and many memories. What a memory too! I am still in Shock..and people have called all weekend wondering if I knew and how I am taking the news. I think I am in denail..as his spirit will always be with us. I know how please he was with "Trey" and Jessie and grand baby..and Jessica's new life. He loved his mom and dad so much. and always wanted things to be better for everyone. he never had a personal hidden agenda...as you could always count on his advice and never gave advice with any hint of personal gain. He was sensitive to others and modest and private. He was a living example of a good person. His body was giving out and he gave me hints of that for several years. I had no idea how serious though this latest deal was with the hernia. I just guess it was his time to go. I am so saddened by the news as all of us WRINKLEs are taking this very hard. We are angry and yet grateful that Jim is not suffering and did not suffer..or have his so called 'SBDO" slow death by obesity..actually his death was quite fast.. It is still just not soaking in that he is gone..as I was visiting with him and he with dan..(my dan) just on Monday. We are doing our best to be strong for him and his family...by trying to get to big spring. Jim. I guess we can email on the other side. we still have our memories ...to laugh again at some day. Sincerely, Dave Wrinkle
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