James W. Rippy, 97, of Elkhart, IN, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025.

James was born on March 1, 1928, in Bradford, Indiana, to William Vivian and Etta Grace (Keehn) Rippy. He grew up with a strong sense of family and community, traits that would remain a cornerstone of his life. James' enduring work ethic and determination were evident from an early age, and these qualities would carry him through a lifetime of service, hard work, and dedication to those he loved.

James met the love of his life, Erma R. (Peffley) Rippy. They were married on June 24, 1959, in Lafayette, Georgia, and enjoyed 64 years of marriage. Their relationship was one built on love, respect, and mutual support, and James often spoke of how much he cherished his time with Erma. The couple traveled extensively, always seeking out new places to explore together, but their true joy came from spending time with family and friends. James and Erma's bond was an inspiration to all who knew them. After Erma's passing in 2023, James carried her memory on and continued to honor the life they had built together.

James proudly served his country in the United States Army. His military service was an important part of his life, reinforcing his sense of duty, loyalty, and commitment. After his time in the service, James returned to civilian life with the same drive that had guided him in the Army. He was successful in his various jobs and was instrumental in founding a local credit union and union organization.  He dedicated himself to the growth and success of the credit union, helping countless families and individuals achieve financial stability. James remained an active and passionate advocate for the union, always seeking ways to improve and strengthen it for the benefit of the community.

Beyond his work and accomplishments, James had a passion for creating things with his hands. He enjoyed working on toy barn crafts, a hobby that allowed him to express his creativity and share his love of craftsmanship with others. James had a natural ability to connect with people, and his love for meeting new individuals only added to the richness of his life. Whether he was engaging in conversation with a neighbor, helping a friend, or traveling with his family, James had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel like they had known him for years. His warm smile, cheerful demeanor, and no-nonsense attitude made him a beloved figure in his community.

James was also an avid gardener, and his love for the outdoors was reflected in the lush gardens he and Erma cultivated together. Gardening provided him with both relaxation and a sense of accomplishment, as he took great pride in nurturing plants and watching them grow. He often shared his harvest with friends and family, making sure everyone had a taste of the fruits of his labor. He also loved family cookouts, where he was always at the grill, bringing people together with his cooking and laughter.

Family was at the heart of James' life. He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, and his greatest joy came from spending time with his loved ones. He was especially close to his children, Cynthia R. (Kevin) Perry and David W. Rippy, and he delighted in the time spent with his granddaughter, Sarah Rippy. James' legacy of love, strength, and determination will continue to inspire his family for generations to come.

James W. Rippy's life was a testament to the power of love, hard work, and determination. His memory will continue to inspire and uplift all those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and friends. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched.

James was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Erma, his son James W. Rippy Jr., and his brothers John and Paul E. Rippy.

He is survived by his children, Cynthia R. (Kevin) Perry and David W. Rippy, and his granddaughter, Sarah Rippy, along with numerous extended family members and friends who will forever remember him for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

A service to celebrate James' life will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Hwy., Osceola, IN 46561 at 10am. Burial will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. His family asks that you come prepared to share a memory, a laugh, and a smile in honor of a man who truly never met a stranger and whose heart was as big as his accomplishments.