J.W. Gipson, 97 of Independence, MO., formerly of Macon, MO. passed away peacefully on Thursday the 7th of April, 2022. J.W. was born in Callao, MO to Ola Mae Gipson and James “Jimmie” Granvil Gipson on February 2, 1925 and was the only brother to Dora Bloomberg and Fern Haskin.
Upon graduation from Macon High School, JW was drafted into the Army during WWII where he was stationed as a Lab Tech in England and traveled throughout Europe. After the Army, J.W. moved to Kansas City, MO where he stayed at the YMCA while seeking job opportunities. There he met his first love, his wife Selma “Sparky” Hoskins. After the two married, three beautiful children came along, Mike, Karen, and Paula. They were active members in the school and church community in Independence always lending a helping hand. J.W. continued to work while going to night school at UMKC where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. He would go on to work in accounting for Allis Chalmers Gleaner until his retirement in 1987.
After Selma’s death in 1993, he met and married Velma Haldiman. They enjoyed retirement and travel during their marriage of 24 years. Velma preceded him in death in May of 2019. J.W. had a true zest for life. He enjoyed walking and communing with nature. He was a self-taught guitarist, avid golfer, bowler, gardener, and amazing Bridge player. He enjoyed listening to 1940’S classic music, especially Hank Williams. During his lifetime, J.W. was a member of the Community of Christ Church and the First Baptist Church of Independence.
He is preceded in death by both parents, his sisters, wives, and step daughter Judy Green (Ben.)
J.W. leaves behind, his son Michael (Cheri), daughters, Karen Hamilton (Wayne) and Paula Strange (J. Mike). Grandchildren; Misty Gipson, Melanie Hutchinson (David), Macy Ogle (Christopher), Katherine Hamilton-Shae (John), Bryan Hamilton, Nick and Jade Strange (Will Switzer), Keri Hensley (Jon), Keli McClour (Ryan), Nikki Shubert (Chris), along with great-grandchildren Camille Ashburn (Trevor), Andrew Shea, Daniele Harrison, Addison and Braxton Hutchinson, Caitlyn Lash, Adam, Matthew, and Christin Hensley, Sydney and Charlie Shubert, Penelope and Daphne Ogle, and one great-great-grandson Leo Ashburn.
J.W. is also survived by his step-daughter Donna Franklin (Charlie), son-in-law Ben Green, grandchildren; Tirza Green and Jody Smith, Tyler Green, Charlie and Jennifer Franklin, Tommy and Emily Franklin, Danny Franklin, David Franklin, and seven great-grandchildren.
In summary, JW was a gracious, loving, gentle, and kind man, who loved to laugh, had a great sense of humor, and enjoyed the company of family and friends.
There will be a private family interment at Mound Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to:
– One Community Hospice – 15600 Woods Chapel Rd Suite A, Kansas City, MO 64139
– The Salvation Army – Online
– Wounded Warrior Project – Online