J was born on the 18th of May, 1956 in Frankfurt, Germany and moved to the United States six months later with his father, Lloyd Ripper, and mother, Luise Schnieder Ripper (who passed away in 2020 at the age of 100). J attended Kendrick High School in Columbus, GA and then went on to graduate from Columbus State University in 1978 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. His professional career began as a General Manager at Red Lobster, where he met the love of his life, best friend, and wife, Cheryl. He then went on to work for a cellular service company as a fraud investigator and then to the State of NC as a retirement counselor.
J was a warm, friendly, and loving person who was generous with his time and friendship. His love of others permeated in everything he did in his life. When we think of J, we are reminded of the commandment that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. J epitomized that command in that he never met a stranger. J loved people and he would do anything in his power to help and serve others. J’s love of people was most profound for those with physical and intellectual challenges. He was an outspoken advocate for the Special Olympics and served as a volunteer and a Bocce coach. J would travel around the country to attend and serve others through the Special Olympics.
J had many past times which included using his plethora of tools to build anything and everything. He enjoyed doing puzzles with Cheryl, putting together Legos, playing board games, drawing and playing catch with his grandkids, and touring breweries across North Carolina. Those close to J knew his love for baseball, beer and heavy metal music. J had a witty sense of humor, and always thought of his family and others before himself.
J is survived by his wife of over 38 years, Cheryl Ripper. They were married on September 23, 1983. He is also survived by his daughter, Connie Haynes, her husband Scott and their children Ella and Jackson, and by his sister Susan Medina and her children Monika and Juan.
In lieu of flowers or gifts the family would deeply appreciate donations to the Special Olympics of North Carolina or Duke Hospice on J’s behalf. A family only celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
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