Alvin H. Shipp

Al (Alvin) Henderson Shipp, beloved husband, father and grandfather, affectionately called “Papa” passed away on February 28, 2022 at 96 ½ years old (almost 97). Al was born in Nash, Texas on June 25, 1925 to William Thomas and Sallie Arrington Shipp, both which preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were seven sisters and two brothers. Al graduated from Texarkana, Texas High School and then, from The University of Texas at Austin in 1949. Al was a WWII Veteran, serving in the Air Force, which included his foreign service in China – Burma – India operations. He earned several medals during his service and was honored to receive a field commission from the Air Force in 1950. Al was married to his loving wife Melba Jean Nethercutt in 1953. Al worked for the Dupont Company for more than 38 years and had assignments throughout the United States. His last assignment with Dupont was in Houston, as zone manager with the responsibility for the southern and western states, plus Mexico and Alaska. He retired from Dupont in 1986. He and his lovely wife traveled extensively throughout the world. Melba brought him over 60 years of happiness and preceded him in death on March 3, 2014. Al is a member of John Wesley United Methodist Church. He was an avid gardener, bird watcher, a sports fan (Go Longhorns), and he loved being with his family. He was compassionate, loving and always wanted to help others – even from the hospital bed. He was always grateful that God blessed him with a long, healthy life of 96 years. Al is survived by sons and daughters-in-law Mark and Rebecca Shipp, of Daphne, Alabama, Thad and Faith Shipp of Houston, Texas, and Granddaughters Mrs Amber Shipp Mercer and husband Patrick, of Austin, Texas, Ms. Alyssa Shipp of Houston, Texas, Ms. Sydney Shipp of Crockett, Texas, Ms. Chantelle Hardy, Great Grandson Mr. Cole Hardy, and Great Granddaughter Ms. Becca Hardy all of Allen, Texas. Also, many special nieces and nephews. A Graveside service for family & friends will be on Friday, March 4, at 1:30pm, section 11, of Memorial Oaks Cemetery, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079. All are welcome, also, to attend a reception following the service at 14926 Riverforest Drive, Houston, TX 77079. In lieu of flowers, contributions will be appreciated by the endowment fund of John Wesley United Methodist Church, 5830 Bermuda Dunes, Houston, Texas 77069.