Jim was born the son of Frank and Loleta (Rayburn) Shipley on January 10, 1941, in Columbus, Ohio. Jim graduated from Whitehall-Yearling High School in Columbus, class of 1958. He joined the Navy the same year at age 17. He was a proud veteran. Jim married Sallie (Murdock) on July 10, 1962, in Parowan, Utah. Jim and Sallie raised their family in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. Jim had a career in IT at Notre Dame, was a project manager for Henry Ford Hospital, and retired from Siemens. Jim took classes at Oakland University and earned his bachelor's degree from Rochester Christian University.
Jim was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Rochester. Throughout the years he served as Branch President, Bishop, Stake Presidency Counsellor, member of the Detroit LDS Temple Presidency, and Sealer. Jim was a Christian's Christian, always helping others.
Jim was an active Scouter and served as scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 298. He enjoyed researching family history, and served as the director of the Family History Center. Jim was known for his great wit and boundless energy.
Jim is survived by his wife Sallie Shipley; children Daniel (Kate), Michael (Sherry), David (Jessica); and Matthew (Nikki) Shipley; 18 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren, and brother Charles Shipley. Jim was predeceased by his parents.
Visitation will be on Friday December 5, 2025, from 4-8pm at Pixley Funeral Home, located at 3530 Auburn Road in downtown Auburn Hills, Michigan. A funeral service will be held on Saturday December 6, 2025, at 10:30am (Visitation 9 - 10am) at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1610 Brewster Road in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Interment will be on Monday December 8, 2025, at 2pm at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.
