Jim R. Nipper
Alabaster

Jim R. Nipper “J. R.”, age 70, of Alabaster, passed away Thursday, March 1, following complications from pneumonia.

He was born in Tampa, Florida, to H. D. and Faustelle Nipper. After graduating from King High School, he was drafted to the US Army. He was awarded a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam.

He was known as Coach Nipper to the boys he coached in Little League baseball and youth football. He retired from Southern Lime as a Control Operator on Jan. 31, 2016. Since retirement, he was able to enjoy spending time with his wife and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law, Marge Scalise; father-in-law, Mike Scalise; sister-in-law, Peggy Dayton; and best friend, Wayne Bunn.

J.R. is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nancy Scalise Nipper; daughter, Tammy Jenkins of Alabaster; son, Jimbo Nipper of Helena; grandchildren, Brandon Webster (Gabby) of El Paso, Texas; great-granddaughter, Mariah Webster; sisters, Joyce Fields (Bill), Tina Denham (Allen), and Jodi Nipper, all of Tampa, Florida; brothers-in-law, Michael Scalise (Mimi); sisters-in-law, Patsy Etheridge (Ray), Mickey Combs (Tom); family friend, Faye Bunn; close niece, Carole Perkins (Sonny); and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 7 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at Rockco Funeral Home (Montevallo). His funeral service will begin at 1:30 p.m., with Bobby Harris to officiate. His committal service will be held at 2:45 p.m. at Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the Field of Angels League at Fieldofangels.org.