Loretta J. Tipton passed peacefully in her sleep on March 21, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in Alton, Illinois on December 12, 1936 to Lucy and Homer Clawson, she lived a life rooted in faith, generosity, and quiet strength, leaving behind a legacy of love that will continue to shape those who knew her.

Loretta eventually moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where she graduated from Ritenour Senior High School in 1954. She went on to work as a lab technician at Jewish Hospital for many years before dedicating over 30 years of service to State Farm.

Loretta was devoted to her family and her church. She was a founding member of Dorsett Village Baptist Church, where she and her husband, Melvin, helped build a lasting community. For decades, she faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher. Later in life, she continued her service as a devoted member of Fee Fee Baptist Church.

She always thought of others first and found joy in caring for those around her. Whether it was through her generous spirit, warm presence, or the simple act of baking something special, she made people feel loved. Her granddaughter held a particularly special place in her heart, and she delighted in baking goodies just for her.

Creativity flowed through her veins. She was a gifted crocheter and seamstress, making countless gifts for her loved ones over the decades: hand towels, potholders, quilts and other treasured items. Her artistic talents extended to painting beautiful scenic landscapes. Music was another of her many gifts. Not only did she possess a lovely voice, she also played the autoharp, mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, and piano.

She was incredibly strong and independent. She loved her dogs dearly and found companionship and joy in their presence. Through every season of her life, she remained steady, compassionate, and generous beyond measure.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucy and Homer Clawson, her beloved husband, Melvin Tipton, daughter, Nanette Tipton, her son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Kathleen Tipton, her brother, Kenneth Clawson, and her sister and brother-in-law, Anita and Chris Province.

She is survived by her granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Jaclyn Tipton and Jared Poznich, as well as her sister and brother-in-law, Janice and Gary Mitchell. Her love lives on in them and in the many lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held at Fee Fee Baptist Church (11330 St. Charles Rock Road, Bridgeton, MO 63044) on Sunday, March 29 at 5pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the ministries of Fee Fee Baptist Church.

Donations may be made online at https://feefeebc.churchcenter.com/giving, or by check payable to "Fee Fee Baptist Church" with "Memorial Donation – Loretta Tipton" noted in the memo line.