Claude "Don" Tippens

Don is survived by wife, Sharon, and four children: Angie (Chuck) Miller, Dan Claude Jurgen (Francisco) Fernandes De Araujo, Kevin (Misty) Tippens, Jay (Rose) Tippens; grandchildren Jordan Tippens, Scott McCurry, Jessica (John) Knox, Maddie (Jack) Walker, Devon, Morgan, Emma, Marlee, Sydney, Kennedy, and Jayson Tippens; great grandson Liam Knox; Sister Judy (Jim) Hancock, and brother Steve (Mickey) Tippens. He has many beloved nieces and nephews.

Don is preceded in death by his father, Claude Tippens and mother, Lorene Tippens Birdwell ; brothers Al, Craig, and Ronald Tippens; Sons David Carl and Claude Jr Tippens; beloved brother in law, James Hancock.

Don is a retired veteran. For his service, he earned, among others, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm Award. He served honorably in the Army, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. To this day, many of his soldiers affectionately refer to First Sergeant Tippens as ‘Top.’

Don spent his entire life making a difference where he could. Connecting to people came naturally for him. He would always rise and answer the call if he could help someone. If he saw a need, he would give above and beyond. On October 23, 2022, Don answered the ultimate call, he humbled himself and cried out for forgiveness and received Jesus as his Savior. On November 15, 2022, Don took his last breath and stepped into eternity with Jesus.

Weaver Funeral Home on Western Avenue will host receiving of friends this Thursday at 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Family and friends will meet at 9:45 am for a funeral, taking place Friday morning at 10am at East Tennessee State Cemetery, 2200 E. Gov. John Sevier Hwy., Knoxville, TN 37920. Condolences are welcome at weaverfuneralsesrvices.com.