Beloved Educator and Air Force Veteran Gary Tipsword Passes Away at 91

Beloved Educator and Air Force Veteran Gary Tipsword Passes Away at 91

In a bittersweet turn of events, the Tipsword family has been marked by the passing of two remarkable men within a short span. Gary Leroy Tipsword, a dedicated educator and veteran, departed this life on August 10, 2025, at Brookridge Heights Assisted Living in Marquette, Michigan. His legacy is deeply etched in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community he served for so many years. The news was detailed in the Mining Journal, where it noted that he was born on December 3, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, to Leroy and Florence ‘Tommy’ (Rochon) Tipsword.

Gary’s journey began as a member of the Air Force from 1953 to 1957, a time that would shape his character and build his sense of duty. After his military service, he pursued education fervently, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Eastern Michigan University in 1961, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Kent State University. For 23.5 years, he dedicated himself to teaching English at Ishpeming High School, where he inspired countless students to cherish learning.

Family Ties and Farewell

Gary’s family life was just as vibrant. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline ‘Polly’ Tipsword, who passed away in August 2022. Their love story spanned decades and was filled with shared winter months in Greenacres, Florida, where they relished sports and activities amidst beloved friends and family. Surviving Gary are his sister, Carol (Tipsword) Stott, and a close-knit family, including children and grandchildren who will fondly remember him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Brookridge Heights Assisted Living and U.P. Home Health and Hospice for their kind and compassionate care. While no services will be held at Gary’s request, prayers and cherished memories will echo in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Broader Family Heritage

The Tipsword legacy continues with another family member, Garry Winfield Tipsword, who passed away on November 24, 2023, in Beecher City, Illinois. His life, too, was celebrated for its commitment to family and community. Garry was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Winnie Tipsword, as well as his wife, Lolita June Sparks, and his brothers, Clinton and Wallace. He is survived by his children, including Tawn Tipsword from Deale, MD, Tana Tipsword Compton in Orlando, FL, and Tena Tipsword Weyer from Bristol, TN.

Garry’s family included dynamic grandchildren and great-grandchildren who contributed to the vibrant tapestry of his life. During his time, he was also a dedicated member of the V.F.W. Post #7676, and memorials in his name are encouraged, reflecting his military service and community involvement. For more on Garry’s contributions and family, Echovita provides more insights.

While the Tipsword family faces the sadness of loss, their stories resonate with love, education, and an unwavering spirit. The connections forged through years of service and family bonds are a testament to the lives lived and the memories that will carry on through generations. Whether in the classroom, the military, or around family tables, Gary and Garry Tipsword made their marks indelibly on everyone they met.