David "Craig" Phipps passed away unexpectedly on January 20, 2025. Craig was born on June 10, 1971, in Jefferson, North Carolina, to Lewis and Myrtle Young Phipps. He grew up in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, where he discovered his love of farming alongside his father and grandfather. Farming was not just a way of life for Craig—it was his true calling and greatest joy. Whether milking and raising cattle, working on tractors and other machinery, or growing crops, his dedication to the land and the work it required was evident to everyone who knew him.

In 1988, Craig met Michelle Cox, and instantly became 'high school sweethearts' becoming husband and wife on June 11, 1994. Their love grew stronger daily and was always centered on faith and family.  Craig supported and cherished Michelle and their two daughters, Kendra and Karley. He often spoke of his gratitude for the joy they brought to his days and his admiration for the strong, kind women they had become.

Craig was a devout Christian who lived out Jesus' teachings every day. A lifelong member of Young's Chapel Baptist Church, he served on several committees and as a deacon, always striving to glorify God through his actions. His Christian values shaped his character and guided his life, from his work to his relationships. He greeted both friends and strangers with a kind word and a grin, embodying the love and compassion of Christ.

Craig also served the community of Mouth of Wilson, VA, as a USPS rural mail carrier. His servant's heart shone through in his dedication to his work and the connections he made with those on his route.

Craig is survived by his loving wife, Michelle Cox Phipps, of the home; two daughters, Kendra Phipps of Piney Creek, NC, and Karley Pendry (Noah) of Boonville, NC; his father, Lewis Phipps of Piney Creek, NC; and one sister, Lynn (Tim) Mockus of Greenville, NC. He was also a cherished uncle to his nieces and nephews: Savannah Mockus and Avery (Carly), Emma, and Brennan Cox. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his mother Myrtle.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Young's Chapel Baptist Church at 12:00 noon, officiated by Rev. Doug Turnmire and Rev. Chris Luper. The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alleghany Educational Foundation, PO Box 33 Sparta, NC 28675 or their website alleghanyedfoundation.org for the Craig Phipps Memorial Scholarship, to support students in their studies of agriculture or trades, or Piney Creek Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 26 Piney Creek, NC 28663.

The family wishes to extend their deep appreciation to the Piney Creek Volunteer Fire Department and the rest of the community for their care and support.