HICKORY---Frances Hamby Sipe, 78, passed away at Brookdale Assisted Living of Chapel Hill, Thursday, March 08, 2018. She was born in Catawba County on July 15,1939, she was the daughter of the late Tyrus Henry and Blanche Turner Hamby. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Louie Franklin Sipe, and her brother James Hamby. Frances was a member of Christ Lutheran Church; she retired from Hickory Chair after many years as inspector in the leather department. She is survived by her son Paul Sipe and wife Robyn of Durham, a granddaughter Riley Sipe of Durham; grandsons William Sipe and Turner Sipe both of Durham. The family will receive friends Sunday, March 11, 2018 from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm at Christ Lutheran Church. Funeral Services will be held Sunday, March 11, 2018 at 2:00pm at Christ Lutheran Church with Reverend Richard Schwandt and Dr. David Ludwig officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.