Donald R. Lipford “Daddy Don” was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior on January 18, 2024.
Born on September 7, 1945 to parents, Marvin and Effie Wilson Lipford, he lived his entire life in the Finger, TN area. His elementary years were spent at the Finger School and he graduated from Bethel Springs High School in 1963.
He worked at Brown Shoe Company and Guinn Brothers Auto before opening his own auto body shop, Don’s Body Shop which he operated for over 40 years.
He met the love of his life, Barbara Gail Plunk, and they were married on June 3, 1967. Shortly thereafter, both Don and Gail were saved during a revival and this began his life long service to the Lord. He heeded the call to preach and preached his first sermon on March 25, 1973 at Lanes Chapel Church. Through the years, he served as pastor at several different churches including Rocky Knob, Pine Hill Assembly and Lanes Chapel where he continued to minister until his death.
Born into a musical family, he was a very talented musician. He could play almost any instrument he picked up but his favorite was the piano. In the early 1970’s, he began to play music for the Massengill family and over the years the group transitioned and was known as the “Gospel Ministers.” Most weekends during the 1980’s were spent traveling with Bro. Joseph and Sis. Charlotte to churches all over to carry the Message in song.
Another ministry dear to his heart was Pine Hill Christian School. Opened in 1980, he served as principal and loved to interact with the students. Any student who ever attended the school will remember his visits and Bible devotions and how he’d buy Happy Meals for his lunch just to collect the toys to bring to them.
He had many hobbies including fishing, coin collecting, antiquing and flea markets. It was a rare Saturday not to find him at the Crump Flea Market where everyone knew him by name. But by far his favorite pastime was antique cars. He loved to go to car shows and had a vast collection of every make and model.
He is preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters and 8 brothers.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gail Lipford of Finger, TN; daughters, Mitzi Harris and husband Tracy of Finger, TN, Melanie Stoll and husband Nathan of Henderson, TN; sons, Michael Lipford of Henderson, TN and Matthew Lipford of Finger, TN; 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; a brother, Bob Lipford and wife Paula of Aurora, IL; and a host of extended family and friends.
“Daddy Don” will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity and especially for his Godly wisdom and guidance to so many.
In lieu of flowers please share a memory of Don by sending a card to: 4099 Center Hill Rd Finger, TN 38334. He touched so many lives and the family would love to read these memories.
