June 18, 1943 ~ April 26, 2022
Born in: Newport News, VA
Resided in: Asheville, NC
Rankin Bowers “Bud” Hipp passed away at the John F. Keever Solace Center on April 26, 2022.
Bud was born in Newport News, VA, on June 18, 1943. At an early age he and his parents moved back to Swannanoa, NC, where his mother had grownup. Bud graduated from Lee H. Edwards High School (Asheville High School) in 1961 where he was a 4-sport letterman, including an All-American football player who was chosen to play in the Shrine Bowl. He attended Furman University, Campbell University, and University of North Carolina School of Banking.
He began his banking/financial career at the Bank of Asheville in 1968 where he retired after 30 years. He helped create Regional Acceptance Corporation and Carolina Finance Company. He was a member of the Rhododendron Civitan Club and for over 25 years he worked with the Blue-White All-Star Basketball game for outstanding high school seniors. Bud was a life-long Presbyterian and a member of Oak Forest Presbyterian Church where he was an Elder and Clerk of the Session.
Bud was the beloved only son of the late Holly William “Chick” Hipp and Helen Patton Hipp, of Swannanoa, NC. He is survived by his wife, Kay McCall Hipp, of the home; daughter, Kitty Hipp McCurry (Kenny), of Asheville; and son, Bill Hipp (Shannon), of Mt. Pleasant, SC. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Ashley Nicole McCurry, Taylor Scott McCurry (Kylie), Henry McCall Hipp, and Jack Owens Hipp, and his adored great-grandchildren, Karson Bowers Reagan, Lucy Grace McCurry and Iyla Kay McCurry.
His graveside service will be held at Oak Forest Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 880 Sand Hill Rd, Asheville, NC, 28806 on April 30, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. The service will be officiated by Reverend Caitlin Johnson. The family will receive friends at the home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Oak Forest Presbyterian Church.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff members of Mission Hospital and especially the John F. Keever Solace Center for taking care of our “Big Daddy.”
Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.
Services
Graveside Service: April 30, 2022 11:00 am
Oak Forest Presbyterian Church Cemetery
880 Sand Hill Road
Asheville, NC 28806
828-667-1067
Funeral Home Assisting The Family:
Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806
(828)252-3535
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com
Sorry to learn that Bud passed away. Worked with him many years at the Bank of Asheville. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
So many good memories of Mr. Hipp, the family, Bent Creek, Venable, sports, beach trips and more. I celebrate Mr. Hipp’s life and wish all the family God’s peace which passes understanding.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
My sincere condolences to Kay and children.
WNC has lost a treasure. We will never forget him for his kindness to all people.
My most sincere condolences to Kitty and the family…I always enjoyed time spent around Mr. Hipp in my youth. I pray that God will shower you all with peace and comfort during this most difficult time.
Dear Family of my good friend Bud. I am shocked and so sad and Happy at the same time to hear the news. We played basketball together at Lee Edwards. In later years, I would visit Bud at his office lots of times.We would sing, laugh and cry together. Everyone that knew Bud knows that he is Heaven now visiting with Uncle Sam and hundreds of others. He had the most tender, loving heart of anyone I have known.He has left his wonderful example for all of us to follow. See you soon Bud. Bill andMary Dot.
So sad to hear of Mr Hipps’ passing. He was always a wonderful presence since first grade at Venable and in Bent Creek. He was always smiling and very kind. Prayers for comfort for Kay, Kitty, Bill and the entire family. ❤️
Genuinely the nicest man I’ve known! He was a devout Christian, a true friend & one of the most caring people on earth. My prayers are with the family as they grieve and celebrate a life lived to the fullest.
Dearest Kay,
My heart is saddened to learn of the passing of your beloved “Bud.” Please know my prayers will be lifted up for you and your family. May the happy and loving memories you have of Bud live on in your heart and bring you a lasting peace.
With Love,
I was so sorry to hear of Bud’s passing. I remember him warmly from the many years that I worked with him on the Blue-White All Star game. We formed a lasting friendship that I valued. He was truly dedicated to the kids who played in that game each year. I also know that he treasured his children and grandchildren! We are all better off by having known Bud.
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, I HAVE KNOWN BUD SINE WE WERE IN KINDERGARTEN, SWANNANOA ELEM, DAVID MILLER JR HI, LEE H, EDWARDS.
Condolances to Bud’s family. I remember him as a great guy!
Today I was saddened to read of Bud’s passing…he was a true “Southern Gentleman”. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
I am just hearing about Bud and have missed his service. I apologize and offer heartfelt condolences to Kay and all from Norma and myself. Peace and love.
I’m sorry for your loss. Bud was a great person.