Joseph Dale Phipps, commonly known as "Possum", age 97, of Independence, VA passed away on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at the Wake Forest Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC.  He was born on April 22, 1928, in Independence to Walter Wayne and Lela Frances Phipps.  He enjoyed a life-long career in interstate commerce driving a truck until he was 88 years old.  He was married to June Ella Spencer in April of 1961.  Possum loved the town of Independence and was well known and respected in his community. Possum was a good man and will greatly missed by all.  He always put his family first and worked hard to provide for them.  He was most proud of his family and he always strived to create the familial bonds that can be passed throughout the following generations. In addition to his parents, Mr. Phipps was preceded in death by his wife, June Ella Spencer Phipps who he has longed to see since her passing, and two brothers, Billy Phipps and Bob Phipps.

He is survived by one daughter, Sharon and Robby Wingate of Independence; three sons, Gayle and Pam Phipps of Lexington, NC, Tim Phipps and David Phipps all of Independence; grandchildren, Elizabeth Cope, Wendy and John Hinson, Taylor and Adam Heitman, Josh Wingate, Alyssa and Zack Hill, and Cheyenne and Myles Kimberlin; his precious great-grandchildren, Huxton, Baker, Beckett, Harper, Ellie, Colt, Jacob, and Ensley; a host of friends and neighbors also survive.

Memorial services will be conducted on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 12:00 Noon at the First Baptist Church of Independence with Pastor Mike Montgomery and Rev. Doug Stuart officiating.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will follow in the Saddle Creek Cemetery and the Haw Orchard Cemetery following the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial contributions be made to the Independence Rescue Squad, PO Box 607 Independence, VA 24348, Independence Fire Department, PO Box 588 Independence, VA 24348 or the First Baptist Church, PO Box 307 Independence, VA 24348.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff of Mountain View Therapy for their kind and compassionate care during the past few months.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence is serving the Phipps family.