Joseph Earl Phipps was born September 26th, 1932, in Mayland, Tennessee, the son of Willie Claude and Thelma Phipps. He was then raised in Lynch Kentucky.

Joe was a graduate from Lynch High School before serving as a Corporal in the United States Army. He started his working career with US Steel before then moving to his lifelong career with the United Mine Workers of America serving as the President of District 19.

Joe was married to Lorene Boggs Phipps, the love of his life for 61 years before her passing in 2020. He had a gift for his storytelling and was filled with many tales that he always loved sharing with his friends and family. He was also an avid fisherman who loved nothing better than taking his boat down to the lake and throwing a line in.

Joe was survived by his sister, Margaret Shepherd, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was proceeded in death by his siblings; Robert Phipps, Mary Quinn, Dave Phipps, Sybil Cornett, Willie Gene Phipps, Doug Phipps, and Kay Ison.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 1 to 3 pm at the Tri City Funeral Home. His funeral service will begin at 3 pm with the Reverend Ronnie Hampton officiating. Interment will follow at the Huff Cemetery in Cumberland with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Harlan County Honor Guard will perform military honors also at the cemetery.

Tri City Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Joseph Phipps.