William Franklin

Hipps

William F. Hipps, 93, a native of Madison County, North Carolina passed away at his home in Waynesville, North Carolina on Sunday, November 1, 2026. He was born on March 23, 1933, in the Spring Creek community of Madison County to the late John Burder Hipps and Iona Wells Hipps.

William dedicated many years of his life to serving his community as a police officer, a career marked by service and commitment to others. He married the love of his life, Kathleen Justice, in 1955 and together they built a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories. William enjoyed gospel bluegrass music, playing guitar, NASCAR races and reading his Bible. Above all, William will be remembered for the love he shared with those closest to him and the lasting impact he made on the lives of those who knew him.

In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by his sister, Julia Irene Hipps.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of more than 71 years, Kathleen Hipps; his three sons: Kenneth Hipps (Glenjie), Michael Hipps (Marcia), and Steven Hipps; his grandchildren: Eli, Courtney, Vince, and Tyler; and his great-grandchildren: Colter, Jamey, Kaylee, Logan, Bexley, Saylor, Lakelyn, Emerson and Kinsley.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Mount Pleasant Cemetery Fund, 4172 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester, N.C., 28748.

The care of Mr. Hipps has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.