Robert "RC" Coy Canipe, Sr. of Newton, NC went to be with his Lord Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at TerraBella Senior Assisted Living in Newton. Born on August 16, 1935, in Lincoln County, he was the son of the late Harold and Addie Canipe. RC was loved by everyone who met him.
He was an active member of Marvin United Methodist Church in Lincoln County. He was a United Methodist lay minister and a Hospice volunteer, sharing his love of the Lord with everyone he ministered to. He was a faithful witness and dedicated servant of Our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ, which was apparent to everyone he met. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and retired from a long career in the furniture industry. He was a past Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Startown Volunteer Fire Department, and an avid gardener who shared his harvest with family and community. Other interests included bird watching, traveling with family, and collecting seashells and shark teeth. RC was an antique collector and could be found weekly at the Hickory Fairground Flea Market.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Elizabeth and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Carolyn Cunningham Canipe, of the home; daughter, Cindy Smith-Canipe and wife, Vicki; daughter, Robin Rudisill and husband, Jeff; son, Robert Coy Canipe, Jr. and wife, Heather. Grandchildren include Lauren Patterson and husband, Wilson; Alex Stafford and wife Michelle; Faith Canipe; Anna Ollis; Madison Canipe; Erik Smith and wife, Courtney; Matthew Smith and wife, Amber. Great grandchildren include Gavin Smith, Matthew Herrera, Wyatt Smith, Harper Smith, and Malachi Smith.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:30 pm on Friday, February 21, 2025 at the Chapel of Willis-Reynolds Funeral Home. The Rev Dr. Bud Black and Rev. Jim Prichard will officiate and a private burial will follow.
The family will receive friends from 12:30 pm to 2:15 pm prior to the service at Willis Reynolds Funeral Home in Newton, NC.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Marvin United Methodist Church Community Building Fund 2731 Startown Road Lincolnton, NC 28658. Online condolences may be left at www.willisreynoldsfh.com
