James Don Shipman “Don” was born on January 3, 1937 to James Frank and Annie Inez Marks Shipman. Mr. Shipman was born in Collinwood, TN, and grew up in Florence, AL where he was the oldest of three. He went on to graduate from Coffee High School with the class of 1955. Mr. Shipman enlisted in the United States Army reserves as a senior in high school, and then fully enlisted right after graduation and served in Korea. As a hard-working husband, father, and man of God, Mr. Shipman went on to graduate from Florence State University with a degree in economics, while tending to a family. He would spend his days working and his nights studying to earn a degree, solely for the benefit of his family because that’s who he was. His last years were spent visiting with family, telling stories of his youth, discussing the word of God with anyone who would listen (and even with those who wouldn’t), watching his westerns, and curing his sweet tooth. He had an intense love for his family, church family, and friends; those who knew Don couldn’t help but love him and his outlook on life. Mr. Shipman passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Saturday, June 8, 2024, surrounded by those who loved him most.
A graveside service will be held at 11:30 am on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at Tri Cities Memorial Gardens.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Ann Clements Shipman; his parents, James Frank and Inez Marks Shipman; brother, Frank Reid Shipman; and sister, Janice Shipman Crabtree.
He is survived by his son, Bryan Keith Shipman (Gaylette); daughter, Rhonda Paige Shipman Wallace, and daughter, Amy Leigh Shipman Lambright (Trevor). Along with his children, he is survived by his seven grandchildren, Bryan Keith Shipman II (Ashley), Samuel Austin Wallace (Kenzi), Ann Leslie Wallace Mansell (Andrew), Catherine Ann Lambright Blurton (Austin), John Alexander Shipman, Abigale Reagan Shipman, Madeline Elizabeth Lambright; and five great grandsons, Finn Ryker Shipman, Jace Wyatt Shipman, Charlie James Wallace, Whitten Neil Blurton, and Banks Reid Blurton.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Preferred Hospice for their care during this time.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cross Point Church of Christ in honor of brother Don Shipman or a charity of your choice.
