02/06/2026
Vickie Smitty Gipson, a lifelong resident of Rutherford County, passed away on February 5, 2026, at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, whose life reflected strength, kindness, and an unwavering love for her family, community, and the Lord.
Vickie worked at JR’s Foodland for nearly 20 years, where she became a pillar of the community and a familiar, trusted face to countless customers. She never met a stranger and was known for her warm spirit, strong work ethic, and genuine care for others. JRs was more than a job to her — it was a place she loved and where lifelong friendships were formed.
Above all else, Vickie lived for her children and grandchildren. Her family was her heart, and she cherished time spent with each one of them.
She is survived by her son, Joey Gipson (Jae); her daughter, Shelley Tucker (Bobby); her grandchildren, Parker Gipson (Meghan), Brook Gipson, and Kylee Abeul (Paul); and her great-granddaughter, Henslee Rae Gipson. She was joyfully anticipating the arrival of a great-grandson, Braxton, as well as another great-grandchild on the way. She is also survived by her by her siblings: Tammy O’Neal (spouse Blake), Judy Watson, Gary Smitty, Randy Smitty, and Eddie “Little Bud” Smitty (spouse Kristy). She was dearly loved by many nieces and nephews.
She is further survived by her lifelong best friend and the father of her two children, Rickey Gipson.
Vickie shared nearly 30 years with Robert Pickel. Though their relationship changed, she loved him deeply and cherished the friendship they maintained. She also held love for her stepdaughter, Barbara Lucei, as well as Robert’s family who she still considered her own.
She is lovingly remembered Brittany De Leon, whom she loved as her own, and Eric De Leon, who held a special place in her heart, along with their girls who she called her granddaughters.
Vickie was preceded in death by her parents, Talmadge “TA” Smitty and Ethel Smitty, and her brothers, Dennis Smitty and Sterling Tombs.
Vickie loved the Lord and looked forward to Heaven. She knew Jesus and found great joy in growing her faith. One of the things she treasured most was participating in a weekly Bible study with her family — something she looked forward to every week and held close to her heart.
Her legacy of love, faith, strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, with the funeral service to follow.
The service will be officiated by Bro. Randell Smitty (nephew and Pastor of Life Church of Fayetteville, TN) and Bro. Dwight Smitty (cousin and Pastor of Liberty in Christ Church).
Services will be held at Liberty in Christ Church,4745 Leanna Road, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.
Arrangements by Bond Memorial Chapel, 1098 Weston Drive, Mt. Juliet, TN. (615) 773-2663, www.bondmemorial.com
