Birdsie Shipley

Birdsie Shipley, born September 18, 1926 in Kingsport, died Friday, July 19, 2013 at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center.

He served in the U. S. Navy during World War II and retired from Tennessee Eastman after 42 years.

Birdsie was a member of Vernon Heights Baptist Church. He loved playing the guitar for the Lord and his church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertsie and Ida Shipley; and brothers, Claude, Clay, Cleve, Cecil, and Robert.

Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Marie Shipley; son, Larry Shipley of Kingsport; daughter, Linda Shipley of Nashville; grandson, Brandon Shipley and wife, Tiffany; brothers, Chester Shipley and Clarence Shipley; three sisters-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. Services will follow at 5 p.m. with Pastor Mike Anglin and Mr. Leland Gott officiating. Music will be provided by Billie Bourn and Peggy Brown.

Military graveside services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at Oak Hill Memorial Park with military rites conducted by the American Legion Posts No. 3/265.

Pallbearers will be deacons, Richard Bourn, Brian Bennett, Bruce Strong, Jack Patrick, Mark McDavid, Ron Puckett and friend, Gary Morelock.

Honorary pallbearers will be Bill Calhoun, Phil Bowery, Vester Coffey, Henry Lawson, Doyle Hensley, Willaim Carter, Bucky Carter, and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Vernon Heights Baptist Church, 2547 Russell Street, Kingsport, TN 37660.

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