Richard Lee Dennis

      Richard Lee Dennis was known as many things to many people. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Rip will be remembered as an outstanding individual.

      Rip was born on April 20, 1954 at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, MS. He was the son of Frank and Georgia Dennis. Rip grew up in Jackson and Clinton MS.

      Rip was raised with 5 siblings. He had 1 older sister Jane; 2 older brothers Donnie and George; and 2 younger sisters Sheila and Lee Ann. Rip was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

      As a young boy, Rip had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Rip was an active child who took part in football and baseball. He was a of the MS Quarterhorse Association. In his spare time he liked horse shows and swiming. However, to Rip, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

      A typical teenager, Rip had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Clinton High School, Manhatten Council School, and The Education Center (Diploma) in 1973. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. His favorite class in high school was History and Math. High School Varsity football (1st string both defense and offense). *Most Valuable Player his senior year.

      Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Rip enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were Johnny Gore, Chuck smith, Larry Jones, Ronnie Bray, Kim Langston, Ken Simpson, and Tommy Tatum. Later in life, he became friends with Raline.

       Empathic and loyal, Rip was committed to making his new family happy.

      Rip worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Rip was blessed with two children, two daughters, Allison and Cathryn.

      Fortunately, Rip enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Rip worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. Rip was a self-employed cement contractor. He started working in road construction as a child. Rip always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

      Rip enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits was that of a hard driving drag racer winning many races in the Top Fuel division over the years. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

      Rip was a man who took pride in upholding his beliefs. Politically, Rip was an Independent.

      Rip passed away on May 3, 2009 at State Capitol Dragway in Baton Rouge, LA after an evening of doing what he loved to do-racing cars. He is survived by daughter Cathryn Dennis Dear; friend Wanda Bell; his brothers George Dennis and Donnie Dennis; his sisters Jane Dennis, Sheila Wilkinson and Lee Gaines; Step Mother, Patsy Dennis and three beautiful grand-children; many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Services were held May 7, 2009 at Wright and Ferguson Funeral Home in Ridgeland, MS. Rip was laid to rest in Parkway Memorial Cemetery in Ridgeland, MS.

      Simply stated, Rip was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Rip leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Richard Lee Dennis.