Elton “Jack” Hipps, Jr., 72, of Hartville, Missouri, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2015, at his home. He was born March 30, 1942, in Scranton, Arkansas, son of the late Elton and Syble Ussery Hipps of Russellville. He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Rickey J. McCanless of Hartville, MO. He is survived by his children, Ricky Hipps and wife Ronna of Westminster, Colorado, Vicki and husband Bruce Coday of Hartville, MO, Stephanie and husband Terry Moore of Hartville, MO; eight grandchildren; and nine great- grandchildren. Jack grew up in Queen Creek, Arizona, where he was an all-star baseball pitcher. He held school records in long jump and track, earning him the nickname “Jack” -- short for Jack Rabbit. Jack had interviews with Major League scouts across the country at the age of sixteen. Due to not continuing his education he was not eligible to play in the Major Leagues, but he never gave up the love of playing ball. He played in baseball and softball leagues all over the state of Arizona until he was in his late thirties. He was a great ball pitcher and received many trophies for "most valuable player". In his spare time he also enjoyed boating, camping, and hunting deer and elk in the mountains of Northern Arizona and Southern Colorado. Jack worked as a welder and millwright while he raised his children from the age of eighteen until he retired in 1997. In 2006 he moved to Missouri and reunited with his children. More than anything else he loved his children and grandchildren. He cherished every moment he spent with family and friends. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for them. Jack loved to sing, play music, and watch old western movies. He loved to tell jokes and make others laugh. Family and Friends and that knew him, and even acquaintances that have met him, loved him. He was truly loved and will be dearly missed! Graveside service and burial will be held 2:00 PM, Wednesday, April 1, at Shiloh Cemetery under the direction of Lemley Funeral Service of Atkins. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Online obituary and condolences are available at www.lemleyfuneral.com.