Ruth Darlene Tipton

Ruth Darlene (Eastep) Tipton, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on January 27, 1935, in Russell, Kentucky, she was the cherished daughter of Ralph and Myrtle (Hill) Eastep.

Darlene embarked on a new chapter of her life in 1958 when she moved to London, Ohio, alongside her husband, Ross Tipton, who joyfully began his career as a London Police Officer. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family values that would endure for generations. Darlene was known for her hardworking spirit, dedicating many years to serving the community as a waitress at the Dixie Drive-In and later at Billie’s Cleaners.

Her culinary skills were unrivaled, as she poured her heart into every meal, particularly during family holiday gatherings. It was during these cherished moments that she would take joy in preparing feasts for her loved ones, until it was time for the next generation to carry on the tradition.

Family was the cornerstone of Darlene’s world, and the bonds she nurtured with her children—Steve Tipton, Sandra (Bill) Gossard, and Rusty Tipton—are a testament to the love she instilled in them. She took great pride in her role as a grandmother to Mindy Jenkins, Ashley Buchanan, Wendy Strunk, Billy Gossard, Blayze Tipton, and Mazilyn Tipton, and she reveled in the joy of being a great-grandmother to Braxton and Cooper Brown, Gavin and Delaney Strunk, and Kaiden Gossard and Melody Flick.

Darlene is preceded in death by her parents, her devoted husband Ross, her sisters Frieda Ray and Joann Hill, and many dear friends, who join her in eternal rest.

In honor of Ruth Darlene Tipton, a private graveside service will be held at a later date.