James B. Rippy, 85, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 9:45 am September 15, 2021, at his residence in Mount Vernon, Illinois.
He was born July 6, 1936, in Nashville, Tennessee to the late James “Gus” Rippy and Helen (Smith) Rippy.
James is survived by his son, Christopher Rippy and wife, Kelsie of Mount Vernon, Illinois; daughter, Debbie Rippy of Nashville, Tennessee; grandchildren, Jack Rippy of Austin, Texas, Robin Lyons of Nashville, Tennessee; and former wife, Jacqueline Rippy of Mayfield, Kentucky.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister, Jane. Mr. Rippy proudly served his country in the United States Army as an 81st Airborne Medic.
He started at Continental Tire as a tire builder, was later promoted to supervisor, and worked through the ranks to become plant manager and retire as corporate vice president over manufacturing. He served time on Mount Vernon City Council, SSM Hospital Board, Rend Lake Water Conservation Board, and various other boards. James wrote a column in the Mount Vernon Register-News.
James loved his son and doted on his grandson, Jack. He enjoyed playing golf with the “boys”, riding his motorcycle, and traveling extensively to see the world.
A Visitation will be held Sunday, September 19, 2021, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Illinois. A Funeral Service will be held Monday, September 20, 2021, at 10:00 am at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Illinois with Reverend Brian Fuller officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Memorials may be made in James’s honor to the American Cancer Society. Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.
