Richard Joseph "Dick" Tiplady
September 9, 1940 - January 13, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Colonel Richard Joseph Tiplady, fondly known as "Dick" or "Tip," on January 13, 2025, in Lakeridge, Virginia, at the age of 84. Born on September 8, 1940, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Dick lived a life defined by honor, service, and unwavering devotion to his family, faith, and country.
A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, class of 1964, Dick went on to serve as a Colonel in the United States Air Force, dedicating his life to his nation. A decorated officer, he completed two tours in Vietnam and was awarded two Bronze Star Medals for his bravery and exceptional service. He also served as the Protocol Officer for Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger, exemplifying his professionalism and commitment to excellence.
Dick's faith was a guiding force throughout his life. He lived a prayerful life, turning to God day and night for the well-being and protection of his family. His quiet, steadfast faith brought him strength and peace in every challenge and triumph.
Family was the center of Dick's world. He shared a remarkable 61-year marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara Ann Tiplady, whom he affectionately called "Barbie." Together, they built a legacy of love and resilience. Dick's passion for architecture, landscaping, and building was reflected in the beautiful homes and gardens he created for his family, spaces where countless cherished memories were made.
An avid lover of nature, Dick enjoyed birdwatching, communing with the outdoors, and finding peace in the beauty of creation. A lifelong sports fan, he particularly loved the NFL, cheering for the Washington Commanders and the Detroit Lions, as well as supporting the Red Wings and the Capitals. Dick was also a budding writer who aspired to publish his memoirs, weaving together the stories of his remarkable life.
He was a mentor to all who were blessed to know him-his daughters, their spouses, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren. Known for his warmth, humor, and larger-than-life personality, Dick brought wisdom, encouragement, and love to every relationship.
Dick is survived by his loving family:
His wife, Barbara Ann Tiplady;
His daughters: Mary Nussio, Donna Fisher, and Laura Hill;
His siblings: Kathi Tiplady Rypkema, Bob Tiplady, and Tom Tiplady;
His cherished grandchildren: Christine Nussio, Jennifer Petersen (spouse Jared Petersen), Stephanie Nussio, Elizabeth Fuller (spouse Charles Fuller), Margaret Nussio, Catherine Nussio (fiancé Daniel Lovelace), Anthony Fisher (spouse Ashley Fisher), Ashley Nichole Cole (spouse Lance Cole), Mandie Fronzaglio (spouse Mike Fronzaglio), Brandon Hill (spouse Natalie Hill), and Eric Hill (spouse Rachel Hill);
And his adored great-grandchildren: Zoey, Maddox, and Kaysen Fronzaglio; Easton Hill; Waylon Hill; Sophia, Chloe, Holly, and Blaise Petersen; and William Fuller.
Services honoring Dick's life will be held as follows:
Visitation: Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Mountcastle Turch Life Celebration Home (4143 Dale Blvd., Dale City, Virginia, 22193).
Mass: Friday, January 31, 2025, from 11:30 AM-12:30 PM at Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church (13752 Mary's Way, Woodbridge, Virginia, 22191).
Full Honors Graveside Service: Friday, January 31, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Quantico National Cemetery (18424 Joplin Road, Triangle, Virginia, 22172).
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a
charity of your choice in honor of Dick's generous and compassionate spirit.
Richard Joseph "Dick" Tiplady will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a steadfast patriot, and a man of faith who lived his life with integrity, courage, and love. His legacy of love and mentorship will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Published by InsideNoVa on Jan. 21, 2025.