Michael (Mike) Ford Lippo

Michael Ford Lippo, age 60, of Florida, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida.

Mike was born on December 12, 1965, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Joe and Carolyn Lippo, who preceded him in death. His parents were well known and deeply respected in the Arlington community of Jacksonville. His father, Joe Lippo, was a Hall of Fame band director at Terry Parker High School, and his mother, Carolyn Lippo, taught piano to generations of students. Both were pillars of their community and their church.

Mike was a graduate of Terry Parker High School and lived a life defined by curiosity, independence, and natural ability. Though he held no formal degree, he possessed a rare and intuitive gift for mechanics and engineering. He was self-taught, widely knowledgeable, and exceptionally skilled in his craft.

Over the years, Mike explored several trades, including auto mechanics, aircraft maintenance, and work with his family at St. Augustine Aircraft Service. He also became a highly skilled golf course equipment technician, known for his precision in maintaining and fine-tuning cutting systems. Mike had an uncommon ability to operate and understand machinery—able to step onto almost any piece of equipment and handle it as though he had spent a lifetime mastering it.

In his personal time, Mike was also an accomplished recreational pilot and had a deep appreciation for flight. There was little he could not learn, operate, or improve with his hands and mind.

Mike will be remembered by his friends for his fun-loving spirit and the good times they shared. He especially enjoyed four-wheeling in the dunes in his Jeep—moments filled with laughter, freedom, and camaraderie that left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Mike was a fighter. Despite enduring traumatic injuries and ultimately facing cancer, he carried himself with resilience and determination. He cherished life and remained grateful for every moment he was given.

He is survived by his brother and his two daughters.

Mike will be remembered for his intelligence, mechanical brilliance, adventurous spirit, and the genuine moments he shared with others.

We pray that God grants him eternal rest.

Mike will be cremated, and his ashes will be carried by friends to Bristol, Tennessee, where he will be laid to rest alongside his parents.