Elizabeth Ragland "Betsy" Gipson

View Video Tribute Elizabeth Ragland "Betsy" Gipson, 91, homemaker and former long-time resident of Wedgewood Drive, died Sunday, September 2, 2012 at Sterling House. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at Oakes & Nichols with Rev. Mike Roberts and David Morris officiating. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Tuesday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, Grand Central Station, P. O. Box 4777, New York, New York 10163-477. Notes of sympathy may be extended at oakesandnichols.com. Born in the Gainesboro Community in Jackson County, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Ragland and Fannie Hopkins Ragland. She was a member of Highland Church of Christ, the Ladies' Bible Class and active in the work of the church including the clothes closet. Mrs. Gipson was a wonderful cook and loved reading her Bible. An accomplished seamstress, she enjoyed quilting and making clothes for her family over the years. She married Esker Wilson Gipson October 25, 1941. Their fifty-five year marriage ended with his death December 15, 1996. Survivors include her daughter, Nancy (Terry) Hill of Columbia; son, Danny Wilson Gipson of Columbia; special friend, Clara Wells of Columbia; grandchildren, David (Melissa) Gipson, Shawn (Crystal) Ragan, and Nathaniel (Beth Anne) Hill; step-grandson, Brian (Freda) Hill; nine great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by seven sisters and brothers. Her grandsons and great-grandsons will serve as active pallbearers. The Highland Church of Christ Ladies' Bible Class will serve as honorary pallbearers.