James Albert "Jimmy" Tripp Sr.

James Albert "Jimmy" Tripp, Sr. (89), a devoted husband, cherished father, and beloved "Papa" passed away on Saturday morning, May 17, 2025, at his home. Jimmy's life was a testament of love & devotion to his family and the simple joys of sharing time with friends and those he held dear.
Born in Ayden-Grifton, NC, on Jan. 20, 1936 to Alonza & Mary (Mae) Tripp, he grew up in rural areas throughout eastern NC. Growing up, he worked on various family farms; he learned to be a carpenter, brick & block mason, and a gardener. Also, as a young boy, he enjoyed hunting, trapping, and fishing to help ends meet. Although he did not complete his primary education at school, he later obtained his GED, with great pride as an adult learner.
When he turned 14, he went to live with his older sister Dee and her husband, Odell Manning, in Kinston, NC, and they helped him towards becoming an adult. At 17, he started his 1st career at Frosty Morn meat packing company as a truck driver. Due to a job related injury, he left the company after 20 yrs. of service, and began his next career at Hatteras Yachts of New Bern. He worked there for 26 yrs. and excelled as a master craftsman, having worked in almost every department. He retired from Hatteras in 1998 and began his last career as a small engine repairman, running his own business - Tripp's Small Engine Repairs. It gave him much joy and satisfaction to help people with their lawn care equipment needs. This kept him busy for the next 22 yrs.
In his leisure time, he loved fishing; enjoyed bowling on multiple teams; was a master pig cooker; coached little league baseball for Clark's Church & Hattress Ladies softball teams; a fan of NASCAR racing; and a doting owner of many beloved dogs. He was a devoted member of New Salem Church, which was built by his grandfather.
At age 85, he closed his shop & retired a 2nd time. He spent the remainder of his life with family & friends, remembering & retelling stories of the "good ol' days" and debating politics. He was MAGA proud & a Trump supporter.
He is survived by his wife, Mollie (Morton) Tripp; two daughters, Connie Lynn, & Patricia (Tripp) Antwine, and his oldest son, James "Albert" Jr (Sara) of Raleigh. He also leaves behind 6 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, as well as two sisters - Carol and Jeanie, with additional family members, nephews, nieces, cousins, and many friends to cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers, 2 sisters, 4 half-sisters,and his youngest son, Gary Tripp, and granddaughter Susanna Tripp.
A visitation will be held at Clark's United Methodist Church on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 1 pm, with a service following at 2 pm followed by a graveside internment at Greenleaf Memorial Park. All family & friends are welcome.
Flowers may be sent or delivered straight to Clark's United Methodist Church, 106 Clarks Road,New Bern, NC 28562. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Mollie Tripp at P.O.Box 14401, New Bern, NC 28561, to help with expenses.