Jimmey Norman Phipps

Lt. Col. Jimmey Norman Phipps, USAF (Ret), age 92, of Colorado Springs, CO passed away in his home on December 17, 2025. Jim was born April 9, 1933, at Bridle Creek, Grayson County, VA, to Dewey and Elsie Phipps. He was the second of five children and grew up with strong family values where he developed his strong work ethic and his Christian faith. Inspired by the Doolittle Raid during World War II, Jim developed an early love of aviation that would guide his life’s work.

Jim graduated from Independence High School in 1950 and from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1954, earning an Air Force ROTC commission. He was given a regular commission in 1957 and proudly served 28 years in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1982. His career included combat service in Southeast Asia and assignments around the world, flying aircraft such as the F-102, F-105, and F-106. His service was recognized with numerous awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, several Air Medals, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and the Vietnam Service Medal.

In December 1957, Jim married the love of his life, Bonnie, and they shared over 66 years of marriage. While military life required frequent moves and long separations, his family and his love for flying remained his anchors throughout those demanding years. He and Bonnie raised three children—Sherri Lynn, Virginia Ann, and Michael William—who were the pride of his life. As a father, he was a steady and encouraging presence, known for his integrity, strength, guidance, and unwavering support. As a husband, he continued to show his utmost love and devotion by taking on the role as Bonnie’s caretaker due to her illnesses, which gave her 11 more years with us.

Following his Air Force retirement, Jim continued flying as an instructor and tow plane pilot at the United States Air Force Academy. He took great pride in mentoring young cadets and helping thousands begin their aviation journeys. In 2007, he was awarded the USAFA Flying Safety Award for saving cadet lives and aircraft during a sudden high-wind storm, as well as the Commander’s Coin for Excellence in recognition of his exceptional service. In 2002, he was recognized as the first Academy tow plane pilot with 20 years of service. Over his lifetime, he logged more than 22,240 flying hours and 55 years of flight. In 2007, he was also honored with the Department of Transportation’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award for 50+ years of excellence in aviation safety.

Outside of aviation, Jim treasured time with his family. He was an avid skier, elk hunter, and fisherman. He especially enjoyed sharing those interests with his children and grandchildren. He took great joy in bringing his family together to celebrate holidays, milestones, and everyday moments, creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds. His faith guided the way he loved and led his family. He was a longtime member of Woodmen Heights Church and lived his life with devotion, integrity, and faith.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Elsie, his siblings Harvey, Dorothy, and Carole and beloved wife, Bonnie. He is survived by his brother George; children Sherri (Trip), Virginia (Terry), and Michael (Nicole); his grandchildren, Christopher (Shanae), Alexis (Lucas), Ryan (Martha), Renee (Jonathan), Abigail, Lauren, and Camille; and his great-grandchildren, Ryker, Rhonan, and Eden.

Memorial Service and Reception will be held on January 8th, 2026, at 10:00 am at Woodmen Heights Chapel at 8292 Woodmen Valley View, Colorado Springs, CO 80908. Following the reception, the Burial Service with full military honors will be held at 2:00pm at the Pikes Peak National Cemetery Committal Shelter at 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80925.

Memorial gifts honoring Jimmey may be made to: Woodmen Valley Chapel (Woodmen Heights Campus)