Janet Rippy

Janet Oneta Leggett Rippy, 87, of Tyler, Texas went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 4, 2024. She was born January 4, 1937, in Houston, Texas to the late Gwendolyn Harmon and Frank Leon Leggett, and was raised with her older sister Nelda in Sulphur Springs, Texas. In high school she was president of the Spanish Club, vice president of the National Honor Society, elected School Favorite and Western Day Queen. After graduating, Janet continued her education at East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas where she graduated in three years with a teaching degree. On August 31, 1956, Janet married the love of her life, James Hargis Rippy, who was studying to be an engineer. The couple lived in Lubbock, where Janet taught first grade while Jim completed his degree at Texas Tech University. They moved to Midland before settling in Tyler in 1968. The Rippys joined Marvin Methodist Church, where Janet taught various levels of Sunday School, but she was most remembered for teaching tenth grade. She joined the Junior League of Tyler, the Women’s Symphony League and she volunteered for the Texas Rose Festival. She was known to be an excellent bridge player. Janet was well-read and well-versed in many areas, especially the Bible. We all take comfort in knowing with total assurance that Janet is in eternal glory with our Lord. Her deep faith in Christ gave her strength, peace, and joy throughout her life. Janet was preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, James H. (Jim) Rippy, her sister Nelda Wilson Brownlee, as well as her parents. She is survived by her three sons: James Reed Rippy and wife Suzie; Charles Glenn Rippy and wife Michele; and Lewis Bradley Rippy and wife Jennifer, all of Tyler. She is also survived by her brother-in-law David Rippy and wife Maridel of Pennsylvania. Beloved grandchildren include: Morgan Rippy Young and husband Alan; James Patrick Rippy; Charles Glenn Rippy, Jr.; Matthew Clark Rippy and wife Alex; Lewis Bradley Rippy, Jr. and wife Mallory; George William Rippy; Calvin Frank Rippy; and great-granddaughter Amelia Patricia Rippy. Special thanks to Vickie Whitmill for her loving care. A celebration of Janet’s life will be held Friday, July 12 at 11:00 a.m. in the Marvin Methodist Church Chapel. Dr. Doug Baker will officiate under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home. A gathering of family and friends will follow the service in Pirtle Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Marvin Methodist Church, 300 W. Erwin, Tyler, Texas 75702 or to the charity of your choice.

Janet Rippy

January 4, 1937 - July 4, 2024