Jesse Daniel Pippins

Jesse Daniel (J.D.) Pippins, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023, at the age of 85. Born on January 28, 1938, in Quinton, Oklahoma, J.D. lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the things that brought him joy.

J.D. graduated from Quinton High School in 1956 at the age of 18 and proposed to his sweetheart, Rilda Faye Green. They married on August 28, 1957, in Ft. Stockton, Texas, where he worked in the oilfield. They soon realized Tulsa was where they wanted to put down roots and start a family. J.D. eventually built a career in finance at Rockwell International. Few things brought him greater joy than his two daughters, Gina and Janet. He especially loved taking them to the movies, the zoo, swimming at the beach, playing music, and teaching them to drive. He adored Sunday morning family breakfasts at the Pancake House.

With so many hobbies and interests, J.D. packed more life into his 85 years than someone twice his age. At 13, as soon as he learned three of a kind beat two pair, he became obsessed with poker. At 16, he picked up his first pool stick and was hooked on snooker. Playing pool was his passion to the end. With cue in hand, J.D. spent countless hours playing at Broken Arrow Seniors, captivating those around him with his skill and precision. He loved to read books and enjoyed his many trips to Steve’s Sundries Bookstore where he picked up the Daily Racing Form and handicapped the horses while sipping a chocolate shake. He also loved to solve the New York Times’ Wordle, take walks at Haikey Creek, and make friendly football bets with his daughter & granddaughter. He shared a lifelong, special bond with dogs and owned many, especially his beloved Ruffy. He shared his love of pool with his grandsons and taught them some of his best shots. His love of music was evident through his piano playing, guitar picking, and singing with friends and family throughout his lifetime.

Beyond his hobbies, J.D. was a man of integrity, kindness, and compassion. His warm smile, gentle nature, and quick-witted humor made a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

JD is survived by his wife, Rilda Pippins, two daughters, Gina Hart, and Janet Skates, four grandchildren, Kimberly Cox, Nick Statham, Sean Statham, and Aaron Statham, and a wide circle of friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

A Celebration of J.D.’s life will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Friday, January 5, 2024, at the Broken Arrow Senior Center, 1800 S. Main Street, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Family and friends are invited to share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Jessie Daniel Pippins entrusted his care and cremation to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 231 E. Commercial Street, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012, 918-251-5331.