Ken Tipton

Kenneth Steve “Ken” Tipton, age 70, of Old Fort, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 5, 2025, at his home.

Born on April 6, 1955, in McDowell County, Ken was the son of the late Richard Lee Tipton and Otia Marie Davis Tipton. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Lee Tipton; his grandson, Eric Peoples; and his brother, Gary Tipton.

Ken will be remembered as a tender-hearted and compassionate man whose kindness touched everyone he met. He had a deep love for people and never met a stranger. A loyal Duke Blue Devils fan, Ken rarely missed a chance to cheer them on. He also enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting deer and wild boar, casting a line while fishing, and proudly tending to his tomato plants.

Above all, Ken’s greatest passion was drag racing. For many years he poured his energy and excitement into the sport, both on the track and off. Even in recent years, he continued to follow races closely, never losing the thrill and love for the competition.

Ken’s family was the center of his life. He shared 47 beautiful years of marriage with his devoted wife, Donna Lynn Hobbs Tipton, who was his constant support and companion. He is also survived by two sons, Roger Dwayne Childers (Nicole) of Oak Hill, FL, and Corey Tipton of Old Fort; two granddaughters, Joy and Alexis; five great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Vanessa, Landon, Ronan, and Masie; two brothers, Ronald Tipton (Mary Ann) and Greg Tipton, both of Old Fort; and his faithful canine companion, Jordan, who rarely left his side.

A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Davistown Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery, with Rev. Donnie Massingill officiating.