Walter Pipes Obituary

Walter Edwin "Ed" Pipes passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, at the Frank Tejeda Veterans Home Memory Care Unit in Floresville, Texas, at the age of 91. During his time there he was lovingly cared for by the 'angels on Earth' nurses and staff who treated him as family. The family also wishes to acknowledge his special friend and loving care giver, Mary Castro. Ed was born on September 21, 1933, in Redwater, Texas, to Eugene and Esther Pipes.
He was one of four children and is preceded in death by his siblings Alford Pipes, Perry Pipes, and Eugenia Taggert.
Ed proudly served in the U.S. Army and National Guard, stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Following his military service, he dedicated 33 years to Dickey Clay, working in Texarkana, Kansas City, and San Antonio. Starting as an accountant, Ed's hard work and leadership saw him rise to the position of Vice President before his retirement. Never one to slow down, he later founded a successful chain of convenience stores across South Central and Coastal Texas, retiring a second time after growing the business to eight locations.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Linda Pipes, and their four children: Dee Oliver (Mark), Sue Tackitt (Tommy), Chris Pipes (Jonelle), and Mike Pipes (Paula). He was a beloved "Grandpa" to his grandchildren-Kim Hendley (Matt), Scott Tackitt (Tanya), Brandon Oliver (Katelyn), Katy Oliver Cornell (Brandon), Jaxson and Camber Pipes-and great-grandchildren Braelyn, Mason and Taryn Hendley; Trace, Jillian and Reagan Tackitt. While Ed was a wonderful father, it was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who truly lit up his life.
Ed had a deep love for animals and was affectionately known as "Dr. Doolittle" for his special bond with all creatures. He was rarely without a cat or a bird dog-training Pointers, Brittany Spaniels, and Labradors to be loyal hunting companions. His passion extended to horses as well, particularly Paints, and at one time he cared for more than 25 horses on his property.
A passionate outdoors-man, Ed was an avid hunter who traveled across the U.S. and Canada pursuing game and forging lifelong friendships. He was also deeply involved in the Houston Rodeo as a Lifetime member and Texas Trail Riders, where he famously hosted an annual barbecue from a refurbished, state-of-the-art railroad caboose-a gathering as memorable as the man himself.
A true people person, Ed never met a stranger. He loved to visit, tell stories, and never missed a ballgame of his grandchildren or great-grandchildren while he was able.
Funeral services will be held at the First Baptist Church in Floresville, Texas. Visitation will take place at 2:00 PM on Saturday, July 12th, 2025 with the service immediately following at 3:00 PM. Arrangements are being handled by Vineyard Funeral Home.
Ed Pipes leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, laughter, and love. His stories, smile, and spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing him.
The family requests donations in lieu of flowers to the Alzheimer's Association or to the Wilson County No Kill Shelter.
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