Mr. Phipps was born at Fox, Virginia, to the late Vance Phipps and Zella Hash Phipps. A veteran of the U.S. Army.

He was owner-operator of Rural Retreat Mills for many years.

Surviving, wife, Lorraine H. Phipps of the home; one brother, Joe W. Phipps of Independence, VA; two sisters-in-law, Helen H. Anderson of Allentown, NJ, and Carol H. Nady of Trenton, NJ; several nieces and nephews; special friend, Billy Shupe and wife, Lisa of Crockett, VA

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, September 6, 2012 at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home Chapel, Independence, VA, with the Rev. Jack Rutherford officiating. Interment in Fox Cemetery, Independence, VA; The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour preceding the funeral service.

Flowers appreciated or memorial contributions may be made to the Fox Cemetery, C/O Joyce Phipps, Treas., 1852 Maple Road, Independence, VA 24348