Perry Ricky Tipton, Sr., 79, of Lugoff, widower of Virginia Sudduth Tipton, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at his home.

Born in Monroe, GA, he was a son of the late Fred and Rosie Lee Darnell Tipton. Rick was a proud retired Army veteran who served in the 101st Airborne as a special forces Army Ranger. As a decorated Vietnam veteran, he honorably completed three tours, earning the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal with Valor, and three Purple Hearts for his remarkable courage and commitment to his country. Following his military service, he continued to serve his community as a deputy sheriff with Kershaw County, where he was known for his integrity and dedication to protecting others. A passionate fisherman, Rick found joy in nature and often sought solace by the water. He was a member of Springvale Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Jay Gibson; a daughter in law, Teri Tipton; and granddaughter, Kendal Snider.

Surviving are his children, Tracie Snider (Boone) of Sumter, Carie Girouard (Ray) of Lugoff, Chris Tipton (Shannon) of Hodges, Rick Tipton, Jr. of Calhoun Falls and Tammy Watson of Blythewood; sisters, Nancy Cooper (Phil), Mary Nell Degenhart (Paul) and Lea Gibson; and grandchildren, Cody Snider (Kristin), Madison and Mason Girouard, Cory Harrington and Hunter Watson (Kristina).

Services will be held at 1 pm on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Harley Funeral Home Chapel. Burial with military honors will follow at Greenwood Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home before the service from 12- 1 pm.

View service here: https://youtube.com/live/NFXmr2mfDx0?feature=share