Deward “Ripper” Stephen Phipps was born at home in Galena, KS on October 1st, 1944. He passed away on May 11th, 2023 in his home in Avilla, MO surrounded by loved ones. Deward is proceeded in death by his wife Sharon Smith, his father Deward George Phipps and Step Mom Ruby Phipps, his mother Ailene Allison and Step Father Richard Allison.
Deward is survived by his daughter Teresa West, Son Colen Phipps and wife Andrea Castro Phipps, and his daughter Shannon Foster. Deward was the oldest of 15 brothers and sisters. He has 14 living siblings- Sister Donna Ruth Ward of Glendale, Arizona; sister Nila Phipps of Mindenmines, MO; sister Natha Lillard of Moran, KS; brother Curtis Phipps and wife Curlene Phipps of Altus, OK; sister Dovie Phipps Strange of Victoria, TX; brother Oscar Phipps of Avilla, MO; brother Carmen Phipps of Avilla, MO; sister Lavella Buchmeier and husband Jerry Buchmeier of Topeka, KS; sister Deadra Phipps Jones of Garnett, KS; brother Carl Phipps and wife Debra Phipps of Ottumwa, IA; brother Maurice Phipps and wife Niccole Phipps of Avilla, MO; brother Jerrod Phipps of Appleton, WI; sister Dorsie Jones and husband Chris Jones of Hamilton, MT; brother Christopher Allison and wife Kathy Allison of Pensacola, FL.
Deward’s memory will live on in the hearts of his 15 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren as well as all his nieces and nephews. Deward always had a story to tell and a laugh to share. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.
We ask that you join us for a celebration of life for this great man and to share in his memory. The celebration will be held on June 17th, 2023 at 11am at his sister’s Deadra Phipps Jones pond located at 32289 N.E. 1600 rd Garnett, KS 66032. All that wish to attend are welcome.
