James Pipkin

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James Vance Pipkin, who passed away peacefully on November 6, 2024, in Lubbock, TX at the age of 83. James, born on December 15, 1940, in Ardmore, OK, grew up in Odessa, TX, graduating from Odessa High School before furthering his education at Texas Tech University, where he received both his BS and Master’s degrees.

In 1963, he married his beloved wife Phyllis in Ardmore, OK. The couple settled in Lubbock, where James embarked on a successful career in education as a teacher and then principal at Rush Elementary before transitioning to become a respected business owner.

He was an avid supporter of his alma mater, Texas Tech University, serving on a committee to raise funds for the Arts and Sciences Department. James was a proud Texas Tech fan, always cheering on his team during games, showing his unwavering school spirit.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Phyllis; sons, Vance Pipkin and Kyle Pipkin and his wife Audra; grandson, Beau Pipkin; brother, Ken Pipkin and his wife Dianne; and a sister, Beth Rigby and her husband Jay, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Paris “Bo” and Hazel (Hagerty) Pipkin.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the James and Phyllis Pipkin Scholarship Endowment, Texas Tech University, Box 41013, 3001 15th Street, Humanities 165, Lubbock, TX 79409.

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