Gustavia Tippins' Obituary
Gustavia Washington Tippins was born on July 20, 1923 in Marshall, Texas. She was one of twelve children born to Albert and Donia Washington. Her siblings were Elvia, Juanita, Tessie, Booker, Selma, Arnold, Albert, Joy, Charles (Charlie), Rubye and Hadiya. Gustavia accepted Christ at an early wage and was baptized at Canaan Baptist Church. She Graduated from Pemberton High School and Attended both Bishop College and Wiley College in Marshall. She pursued a career in cosmetology and worked as a beautician for years. On September 24, 1945, Gustavia married Leon Tippins in Marshall and soon afterwards, they established their home in Los Angeles, California. They were blessed with Tow Fine Sons, Leon Jr. and David Agustus, (David preceded his parents in death). Leon and Gustavia were best friends and were married for over fifty-seven years, until Leon died in 2003. Gustavia and her family united with Mount Moriah Baptist Church in the early 1950's. The late Rev. Earl Pleasant was their pastor. Gustavia was an active member of Mount Moriah for over sixty years. She served faithfully until her health failed. The Rev. Melvin V. Wade was her pastor the last thirty-eight years of her life. She was very family oriented, having been born into a large family and having married into a large family. Family holiday dinners, picnics, and reunions always included many, many people and lots of good food!!! For many years, her home was the headquarters for these social affairs. She was a strong woman who always spoke what she truly believed. She was active in the Marshallite Club, comprised of a group of friends from her hometown, Marshall, Texas. She was also a long-time , active member of the 64th Street Block Club.Gustavia was a model of love and devotion to her husband and family. She maintained a strong faith in God all the years of her life. She departed this life on April 13, 2013. Gustavia leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved son, leon Tippins, Jr.; her devoted daughter-in-law, Elversa; two precious granddaughters, Angela Kim (husband, William) and Davalon Tippins; three fine grandsons, Leon Tippins III (wife, Melinda), DeRon Tippins and Davion Tippins; one teriffic great-grandson, Tolan Kim; three loving sisters, Selma, Joy, and Hadiya; and a host of other relatives and friends.
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