James Allen Tippett

Beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, teacher, coach, and friend

November 26, 1981 – July 21, 2025

James “Jay” Allen Tippett, age 43, passed away on July 21, 2025, from a heart attack. He was born in Merriam, Kansas, and raised in Belton, a suburb of Kansas City, Missouri. Jay attended Heartland Christian Academy during his formative years. He later earned his degree in secondary education and physical education from Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa, where he also played collegiate soccer. Throughout his time at Heartland and Graceland, Jay forged lifelong friendships, built cherished memories, and discovered the path that would shape his future.

In 2006, Jay married the love of his life and best friend, Yamilza Rivera Negrón. That same year, they moved to Las Vegas to begin their new lives and teaching careers together. Jay spent 19 years as a dedicated teacher, soccer and golf coach, and mentor at Spring Valley High School. His passion for coaching extended far beyond the field—he was committed to building strong character in his players. He was deeply respected and loved by his students, colleagues, and the entire Spring Valley community.

Jay had a deep love for soccer, golf, Vegas Golden Knights, and Kansas City sports. Whether watching Manchester United, VGK, cheering on the Chiefs or Royals, or following a major golf tournament, Jay found joy in the game. He was a talented cook who enjoyed watching culinary shows like The Great British Bake Off, various cooking competitions, and anything featuring Gordon Ramsay. In addition to his passions, Jay was a skilled handyman who took pride in maintaining the family home. From tackling house projects to keeping the family vehicles in top shape, he was always ready with a tool in hand and a solution in mind.

Affectionately known by many as “GTJ” (Good Time Jay), he was the life of every party and had an unmatched ability to make those around him feel welcome and at ease. Jay was known for his quick wit, unforgettable dad jokes, and animated storytelling—often delivered with hilarious physical comedy. His beautiful smile and his wild and free spirit made him unforgettable. He formed lifelong friendships with people who will always cherish the memories they made with him.

At his core, Jay was a family man. He was a devoted husband and a loving, present, and affectionate father to his two children, Jozy and Dezmond, who looked up to him and adored him. He never missed a game, award ceremony, or performance. He made it a priority to show up for every high and low in their lives. His children knew they were deeply loved, protected, and cherished. His wife, Yamilza, loved him with all her being. Together, they built a strong, joyful partnership grounded in unwavering love, mutual respect, and shared adventure. They traveled the world as a couple and as a family, navigated life’s challenges hand-in-hand, and created a beautiful life filled with laughter, warmth, and enduring love. Jay was their rock, and they never doubted just how deeply they were loved by him.

Jay is survived by his loving wife Yamilza, his daughter Jozy, and his son Dezmond; his parents Allen and Sharon Tippett; his sister Andrea Pennell and brother-in-law James, along with their children Mikayla, Kyle, and Kendra. He is also survived by his mother-in-law Carmen Negrón; his brothers-in-law Carlos Rivera and Sharon Hassan, Heny and Autumn Rivera, and John Rivera; and his nieces and nephews Lincoln, Khalil, Branson, Maisie, Gracie, and Memphis. His loss is immeasurable, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life for Jay will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Palm Northwest Mortuary, 6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada 89131.