John Elmer Phipps

John Elmer Phipps, 81, Nevada, Mo., passed away on Monday, Jan. 7, 2019, at his home in Nevada. John was born Aug. 19, 1937, in Nevada, to Leonard Elmer and Hazel Francis (Ames) Phipps. He was united in marriage to Karen B. Norris on Jan. 24, 1960, in Nevada, Mo., and was married for 53 years. Karen preceded him in death on May 17, 2013.

John was raised in Bronaugh, Mo., and graduated from Bronaugh High School Class of 1955. He graduated from Pittsburg State University in 1959 receiving a degree in mathematics. John served as 1st Lt. in the United States Army for 2 ½ years while stationed at Ft. Sill, Okla. Following the service he worked for Conoco (Continental Oil Company) for 13 years. He relocated to Nevada, Mo., in 1974 where he owned and operated his own business as a Jobber for Conoco. John was an active member of the United Methodist Church, and was a 32nd Degree Mason.

John is survived by two children, Kristie Phipps of the home, and John Phipps, II, and wife, Sally, Charlotte, N.C.; six grandchildren, Melissa Wilkinson, Carthage, Mo., Samuel Morgan, II, Nevada, Mo., Lynsey Brown, Nevada, Mo., Matthew Phipps, Bondurant, Iowa, Makensey Phipps, Pittsburg, Kan., and Austin Phipps, Charlotte, N.C.; and six great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Karen, he is preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial services with Military Honors will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 12, at the United Methodist Church in Nevada with Pastor Tommy Freeman officiating. Friends may call now and until the hour of service at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Church, American Cancer Society, or the National Kidney Foundation in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.