Melvin L. Phipps

Melvin Lee Phipps, age 82 of Dandridge, went to be with the Lord on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026.

Born in Fort Gordon, Georgia, he was the oldest of two children born to Willard and Madeline Phipps. He went to high school at Morristown East and later graduated the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor's degree in Geology. He taught science for many years in Jefferson County, later retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority where he served as an inspector for the Energy Right program. He enjoyed farming, camping, family beach trips, and working with his hands. He was a conservative patriot; and a longtime member of First United Methodist Church in Dandridge.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Sharon (& husband, Ronnie) Noonkesser. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Linda Sue Forgety Phipps; children, Scott, Kasey (Jamie) Abart, and Lee (Amanda) Phipps; grandchildren, Riley & Grant Abart and Poppy & Zac Phipps; as well as many extended family members and friends.

A graveside service will take place at 12 Noon, Saturday, October 31, 2026 at Hillcrest Cemetery in Dandridge.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Ronald McDonald House, Dolly Parton Childrens' Hospital, or St. Jude Childrens' Research Hospital.

Farrar Funeral Home is honored to serve the Phipps family.