Tommie Gipson

Tom was born in Seminole County, Oklahoma on September 28, 1930. From humble beginnings to a successful career in the oil and gas business, Tom lived a life of integrity, hard work, and sacrifice for his family and country. Tom also proudly served as a member of the United States Air Force.

One of Tom's greatest passions was inventing new ways to improve lives, whether in the oil field or the cattle industry. Over the course of his life, this passion led to Tom being granted approximately 20 US Patents. Tom was an active steer roper and involved in rodeo his entire adult life. As evidence of his grit, strength and determination, in 2007 at age 76, Tom earned the official title as The Oldest Man to Win Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Money at the historic Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo.

Tom was a successful businessman, ambitious inventor and a legendary cowboy. More than that, Tom was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a friend to so many. His humor, wit, and genuine, kind nature made everyone feel like they had just gained a lifelong friend – and the greatest part is - they had. Whether showing concern for others, telling stories from his life or a well-timed joke, Tom quickly endeared himself to everyone he met. His legacy will certainly live on in the memories we hold dear.

Tom is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Carol. Over the years, Tom and Carol enjoyed a beautiful marriage and cultivated lifelong relationships with family, friends and those in their community. Other surviving family members include Tom's daughter Nickey McKay, stepdaughter Toni Karre, stepson Scott Laramore, and their respective spouses. He is also survived by grandchildren and their families, Tucker McKay, Sooner McKay, Colter McKay, Amanda Watkins, Chris Gipson, Sam Gipson, Milee Karre, Dakotah Karre, Kane Laramore, Austin Laramore and Taylor Ribble.

Tom was preceded in death by his sons, Eddie and Ernie Gipson.

A Celebration for Tom’s Life will be held at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Event Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming on Thursday, June 16, 2022 from 1pm – 5pm. The family is asking for those who plan to attend to RSVP online at chutehelp.com/tom.

The family requests that any donations, in lieu of gifts or flowers, can be made to Tom and Carol’s favorite charity, www.autism.org.