Chester Sipes Obituary

Chester Lee Sipes, 79, of Midway, passed away peacefully Saturday, July 20, 2025, at home surrounded by his family, who loved him dearly,

Born Dec. 7, 1945, in Midway, Chester lived a life rooted in hard work, family and a deep connection to the land he loved. A dedicated farmer and truck driver, Chester was known not only for his work ethic but also for the care he poured into everything he did - especially his garden. He had one of the neatest and most productive gardens around and he took great joy in harvesting and sharing its bounty with friends, neighbors and loved ones. Whether it was fresh vegetables or thoughtful conversations in the backyard, Chester gave generously of himself. Chester had a passion for woodworking and took great pride in recreating treasured projects for his friends and family. Whether it was a handcrafted piece of furniture or a simple gift made with care, he found joy in creating things that brought joy to others. His craftsmanship, patience, and generosity will be remembered as fondly as the pieces he left behind. He had a quiet love for watching soccer, but nothing brought him greater pride than his family. He deeply loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was joyfully awaiting the arrival of another great-grandchild in September.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert J. Sipes and Izola Sipes; two brothers, Russell Sipes and Bobby Sipes; and a sister, Mary Frances Embrey.

Chester is survived by his beloved wife, Judith Sipes (Wathen); a daughter, Jenny Grimes (Kevin); a son, Gary Sipes (Tracy); four grandchildren, Tanner Sipes (Maria), Clay Sipes (Kara), Emma Sipes and Peyton Grimes; four great-granddaughters, Kinley Hans, Kaisley Hans, Millie Brady and Rylan Sipes; and his brother, James Sipes.

A Mass of Christian burial is at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 24, at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Brandenburg.

Visitation is from 3 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hager Funeral Home in Brandenburg with a vigil service beginning at 6 p.m. Visitation continues from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the church.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Mass of the Air.

Chester's legacy of kindness, generosity and devotion to his family will live on in all who knew and loved him.