Penny Sue Tipton
February 12, 1946 – February 1, 2025

Penny Sue Tipton passed away on February 1, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Known for her intelligence, creativity, and kindness, she left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
Born on February 12, 1946, in Red Bluff, California, to James and Peggy Savely, Penny moved to Oklahoma with her brother Gary after their father's passing when she was five. Raised in the Baptist church, she was baptized at a young age, and her faith guided her throughout her life, shaping her into a woman whose wisdom and kindness enriched many lives.
Penny earned a Bachelor's degree in English from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Master's in Education from East Central University. She also obtained a school counseling certificate from the Oklahoma State Department of Education, dedicating her career to guiding and inspiring students.
In 1966, Penny married Charles Shelton. While stationed in Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, they welcomed their son, Chad Wayne Shelton, in 1968. Their paths eventually diverged, and in 1971, she met the love of her life, Virgil Tipton. Three months after meeting on a blind date, they married in March 1971 and later moved to Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. Their bond was built on mutual respect, deep companionship, and a shared passion for family and community. In 1976, their family grew with the arrival of their daughter, Nicole Suzanne Tipton.
For 27 years, Penny dedicated herself to teaching, shaping young minds with her wisdom, patience, and unwavering belief in the power of education. Her love for learning was matched by her love for giving, and she extended her talents beyond the classroom by volunteering in various community, school, and church events.
Penny was deeply committed to her community, contributing in countless ways. Whether running the ticket booth at sporting events, volunteering at church, teaching ESL and community education classes, visiting nursing homes, or sponsoring school clubs, she did it all with grace and humility.
After retiring, Penny and Virgil moved to Norman, Oklahoma, to be closer to their daughter and  grandchild. Penny emphasized the importance of family and took great joy in being present for family events. Virgil's unique sense of humor often made these events memorable, and Penny's patience and love for her family were unwavering. She cherished the time spent creating memories, especially with her grandchild, Lennon.
Penny was a fierce competitor at the card table, particularly enjoying Hearts. While she loved to win, the true joy came from spending time with family and friends. To Penny, family was everything, and she would do anything for those she loved.
Penny is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Frances Savely; her son, Chad Shelton, and his wife, Paula; her daughter, Nicole Watkins; her grandchildren, Lennon and Maegan, and Maegan's husband, William; and her great-grandchildren, Kennedy, Jameson, and Sebastian. Her memory lives on through her family. Her life was filled with love, laughter, and faith, and her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew her.