John Thomas "Johnny" Tripp

John Thomas “Johnny” Tripp Sr., 89, passed away on October 5, 2026, leaving behind a loving family and a lifetime of memories that will be treasured by all those who knew and loved him.

John was born on October 24, 1936, in Abbeville, Ga., to Grover and Prulia Tripp. Growing up on a farm in South Ga. helped shape the man he would become. Hard work, dedication, and doing things the right way were values John carried throughout his life and worked to instill in his children and grandchildren. A true Southern gentleman, he carried himself with kindness, respect, and a quiet strength that reflected the values by which he lived.

In 1959, John married his first love Jackie Doster and together they welcomed three beautiful children; Johnny Jr., Troy, and Vikki before settling in Fayetteville, Ga and becoming members of Fayetteville First Methodist Church.

After graduating from Auburn University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1965, John began a successful career at Ford Motor Company in Hapeville, Ga. where he remained for over 36 years.

In 1972, John tragically lost his wife, but continued to faithfully raise his children in Fayetteville while working at Ford.

In 1978, John married Diane Smith Tripp, mother to Alan, Kevin and Daina. They married at Fayetteville Christian Church in Fayetteville, Ga where he remained a member. He spent countless hours coaching, cheering from the sidelines, and supporting their children and grandchildren as they grew up. John believed in showing up for the people he loved.

In 1981, John purchased his family’s farm. He spent his time there, reviving and improving the land by building barns and ponds, re-fencing, tending cattle, bailing hay, and planting pine trees. In later years, when physical work became more challenging, he treasured being on the land he had loved since childhood.

John is survived by his wife, Diane Smith Tripp; his children, Troy Tripp (Kathy), Victoria “Vikki” Sanders (Mark), Alan Smith (Teresa), Kevin Smith (Robin), and Daina Smith Bell (Tommy); and his daughter-in-law, Melody Tripp. John was blessed with 20 grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

He is also survived by his brothers, James Louis Tripp (Lynda) and Robert Wayne Tripp(Gloria- deceased); his sister, Mary Sue Titshaw (Jerry); and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his late wife, Jacqueline Doster Tripp; his parents, Thomas Grover and Mattie Prulia Tripp; his son, John Thomas “little Johnny” Tripp Jr.; his grandson, Patrick Honeycutt; his brother, William Henry Tripp; and his sisters, Carolyn Brooks (Hugh-deceased) and Sandra Phillips.

John believed in the free gift of salvation in Christ. That God so loved the world that he gave his only son to die for and to save us of our sins so we might have life everlasting. John lived a long and full life. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love, values, and memories will be cherished by those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in John's memory to Friends of Morningside Cemetery Trust P.O. Box 156, Rochelle, Ga. 31079.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday November 14, 2026 in the Liberty Hill Christian Church. Rev. Billy Harris will officiate. Interment will be in the Morningside Cemetery.

Frazier & Son Funeral Home has charge of arrangements.