Donald Lynn Phipps Sr

Donald Lynn Phipps Sr

March 28, 1946
Miami, Arizona

~

February 6, 2015

Goodyear, Arizona

Donald “Don” Lynn Phipps Sr, 68, of Avondale, formerly of Tonopah, passed away on February 6, 2015 in Goodyear. He was born on March 28, 1946 in Miami, AZ to James and Daisy Phipps. He grew up in Harquahala Valley, and went to Buckeye Elementary School. Don attended Agua Fria High School, where he met Donna, his high school sweetheart. The two married on December 30, 1963. Soon after, the couple adopted 2 children and had 4 children of their own. After moving to Avondale in 1978, they settled into their home on Ely Lane and raised their children there.

Don is survived by his wife of 51 years, Donna Phipps; his children and their spouses, Dusty Hickey, Donnie Phipps Jr, Tim and Laura Phipps, Heidi and Michael Naughton; and Jennifer and Shane Mcgregor. He is also survived by 1 brother, Jake Phipps; 12 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Don also helped raise several nieces and nephews, and loved them like his own. He is preceded in death by 1 daughter, Sharon Jordan.

Don’s children remember him as a kind, gentle, hardworking dad who encouraged them and loved them unconditionally. A Dad that loved road trips and made sure they lived an adventurous life on the road, full of travel. He would pick up jobs, just to be able to jump in the truck and drive. His grandchildren remember him as their silly grandpa, their hero. He taught them what it meant to earn every penny, keep your word, and not to take life too seriously.  He shared his love of the stars with his grandkids and his love for star wars. Each time as the grandkids would go to leave he would leave them with “May the force be with you.” Everyone that met Don loved him and he had plenty of love to give. Many people remember Don as an accomplished land-grader and for his talent behind a tractor. Anyone who knew Don will comment about his dedication and hard work.

Don will be missed and his memory cherished forever. May the force be with him!

A memorial service is scheduled for February 19, at 1:30pm at Avenidas Funeral Chapel, 522 East Western Ave. Avondale, AZ 85323.

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