Funeral services for 83-year-old Vivian Shipp of Hopkinsville will be Friday, April 24, at 1:00 at Virginia Street Baptist Church in Hopkinsville.
Burial will follow at Cave Springs Cemetery.
Visitation will be Friday from noon until the funeral hour at the church.
Gamble Funeral Home in Hopkinsville is in charge of the arrangements.
Vivian H. Shipp, a woman of sharp intellect, fierce love, and adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026. Born June 6, 1942, in Hopkinsville, KY, she was the daughter of the late Lottie R. Massie and John Daniel Frank Massie.
Vivian’s journey was marked by brilliance and a hurry to see the world. A proud graduate of Attucks High School, she held the institution in the highest regard throughout her life. Vivian was not only a gifted student who graduated at the tender age of 16, she also was a woman of rhythm. Her time in the high school band instilled a lifelong love for the energy and music of a parade.
Following high school, Vivian attended Kentucky State University, where she joined the sisterhood of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and earned her B.S. in Physical Education. It was during this time that she made a pivotal deal with her father: she would complete her undergraduate studies in Kentucky if she could then pursue her original dream of attending UCLA.
Vivian kept her word. In the 1960s, she embarked on a bold, solo journey to Los Angeles. As a young woman navigating a transformative era in American history, she reclaimed her dream and obtained her Master’s degree from UCLA—a testament to her courage and pioneer spirit.
Vivian began her adult life and married in Los Angeles later becoming mother to John Carlos, Vincent, and Charlotte. Though life eventually led her back to her roots in Hopkinsville, she never stopped being an adventurer. She was a woman who lived for the "go," finding joy in trips to the bright lights of Las Vegas, the soulful streets of New Orleans, and the exotic flavors of Mexico. An avid sports fan, she brought that same energy to every game she watched, cheering with the heart of a true competitor.
While her accomplishments were many, Vivian’s greatest peace was found in the love and friendship of her husband Eddie of 38 years. Together, they built a life of steadfast loyalty. She was the trusted anchor for her family, protecting them with fierce love and guiding them with her humor and wisdom. She taught her children and grandchildren that while you can travel the world, the most important journey is the one that leads you back to the people you love.
Vivian Shipp is survived by her husband, Eddie L. Shipp; her children, J.C. Hicks (Lynn), Vincent Hicks (engaged to Mary Kate), and Charlotte H. Gilmore (Mike); seven grandchildren; and three step-children. She was preceded in death by her brother, Daniel Frank Massie.
