Roper Funeral Home and Crematory 206 Holly St Jasper, GA 30143 (706) 253-7500 (706) 253-0040 www.roperfuneralhome.com James "Jim" Junior Phipps, age 92, of Jasper, GA passed away peacefully at home on May 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Jim was a remarkable man whose greatest joy in life was his family. He loved deeply and fiercely, and he especially adored Barbara, his beautiful bride of 71 years. Their love story was one of devotion, partnership, laughter, and unwavering commitment. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Hancock Phipps; his daughter, Lesli Creel/Chip, his son Ric Phipps/Tracy, and his daughter Tori Phipps; his grandchildren, Chris Lazarek/Allyson, Chelsea Friez/Drew, Kyle Friez/Brett Clark, Kelly Phipps Kramm/Clay and Matt Phipps; his cherished great-grandchildren, Carter Lazarek, Adalynn Lazarek, Emma Kramm, Brady Kramm, and Riley Friez, He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and his extended family Logan Creel/Kelsey, Chappell Creel, Lauren Sheffield/Trey, Walton Sheffield and Cooper Sheffield. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James and Vernal Phipps; his brother Cliff Phipps/Bea; his sister Eileen Moran/Robert; and his beloved grandson, Joshua Smith. Born and raised in Kokomo, Indiana Jim was considered an athletic legend in his hometown where he played for the Kokomo Wildkats earning 9 letters for his participation in football, basketball, and track. He was selected to be a member of the 1952 Indiana All Star Basketball Team which defeated the Kentucky All Stars. Though being offered numerous scholarships to play either football or basketball, he chose to play basketball for Branch McCraken and the Indiana Hoosiers where he won a Big 10 Title and became an IU Letterman. In 2019 he was inducted into the Howard County Sports Hall of Fame. Sports were woven into the fabric of his life, and he shared his tremendous knowledge, competitive spirit, and love of the game with so many over the years. A gifted teacher, coach and football referee, Jim devoted nearly 30 years to educating and mentoring young people, with a career that began in Indiana and concluded in Florida. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in everyday life, he was always teaching something. His wisdom, encouragement, and passion impacted generations of students and athletes. Jim never met a stranger. He had a warm smile, a quick wit, and always a joke or story ready to share. His presence brought joy and laughter wherever he went. After retiring in 1984, Jim and Barbara spent a number of years at their log cabin that he built in North Carolina before moving to the Bent Tree community in the beautiful North Georgia mountains, a place he truly loved. There, he embraced life fully-playing tennis year-round, participating in Lake and Wildlife activities, playing bridge, helping build the bocce ball courts, and becoming well known for organizing the community's annual yard sale for many years. Jim also proudly served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves from 1952 to 1957. He loved God, family, country, and his community. Jim Phipps leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, leadership, faith, and service that will continue to live on in all who knew him. A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at Bent Tree Club Tamarack from 1:00pm until 4:00pm. Arrangements are entrusted to the Staff of Roper Funeral Home and Crematory.