James (“Jim”) Lloyd Flippin went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 17, 2026. He was born on February 7, 1947, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Bilbo and Elizabeth Flippin. Jim graduated from Independence High School in 1965 and, later that year, married his high school sweetheart, Leslie Lewis Flippin, on September 17.
Jim earned his PhD in Higher Education from the University of Mississippi. While completing his doctorate, he taught classes and was an assistant football coach at Oxford High School. He later served as an Assistant to the Director of Financial Aid at Ole Miss and ultimately became the Director of the Mississippi Guaranteed Student Loan Agency. Jim was a fierce advocate and loyal supporter of all those he worked alongside, always encouraging and uplifting the people around him.
Jim was tender-hearted and unwaveringly devoted to his family. He especially cherished his grandchildren—his greatest joy. He rarely missed a sporting event and proudly celebrated their accomplishments. Even when he was no longer able to attend in person, he remained their biggest fan.
Jim was known for his big, warm smile and his love of conversation. He had a gift for sharing stories—often humorous, always heartfelt—and he cherished time spent talking with friends and family. His quick wit and unforgettable one-liners became a signature part of who he was.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Leslie Lewis Flippin; his daughters, Cindy Flippin Patterson (Steven) and Candy Flippin Tyra (Chris); eight grandchildren, Taylor Patterson Geddie (Baxter), Reid Patterson (Emily), Hunter Patterson, Walker James Patterson, Lucy Tyra, John Trotman Tyra, Davison Tyra, and Mary Leslie Tyra; and his brother, Joe Flippin.
Visitation will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Parkway Funeral Home in Ridgeland, Mississippi, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place afterward at Parkway Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Webster Animal Shelter of Madison, Mississippi, and/or Canopy Children’s Solutions of Jackson, Mississippi.
