John Walter Pipes

Mr. John Pipes, Sr., beloved husband, father, and grandfather, went home to be with his Lord on Saturday, October 18, 2025.  When he passed, he was surrounded by his devoted family at his home in Moravian Falls, North Carolina. 

John was born on April 22,1942 and was the fourth of ten children born to James Kelly and Lila Mae Pipes.  His parents and a brother, Howard, preceded him in death.

Those left to cherish his memory include the love of his life and wife of 57 years, Sylvia Carrigan Pipes, and the beautiful family they created together: their daughter, Lila (Craig) Walker; their son, John Walter Jr. (Bretta) Pipes; and his daughter, Traci (Mel) Souza.  He was a proud grandfather to Callie (Dakoda) Stone, Caroline (Caleb) Billings, Isaac (Bre) Pipes, Micah Pipes, and Addie Walker.  He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Lillian “Lilly” Greene, Sadie Mae Stone, Serena Pipes and Daisy Jane Billings.

In 1960, John enlisted in the Army, completing his basic training in Kansas before serving his country in Korea.

Shortly after returning home from service, he met the love of his life, Sylvia.  Together, they found their greatest joy in watching their children and grandchildren grow into people in which they were proud.  They cherished moments like weddings, graduations, baptisms, recitals, ball games and every milestone celebrated as a family. 

John will be remembered as an active member of both his community and his church, Moravian Falls Baptist Church.  His recent activities included singing with Seniors on Stage, participating in the church choir, and serving faithfully as a deacon.

John loved to fish and spend time at the beach.  He had a lifelong love of sports and a fiercely competitive spirit. He was proud to have won trophies for his cars, dogs, and bowling with his beloved senor team, Mary’s Little Lambs.  Tuesdays were always among his favorite days-breakfast and bowling with his brother, Robert, were weekly traditions that brought him joy for many years.

And of course, no one will ever forget his iconic handlebar mustache-a trademark as memorable as his laugh.

John’s family invites you to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.  The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12:30 p.m. Extended family members are invited to a meal following the celebration of life. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Atrium Health Levine Children's - Brenner Children’s Hospital or Moravian Falls Baptist Church Van Project.

With Military Honors by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1142 Honor Guard.

Online condolences may be made to www.reinssturdivant.com

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