Heard County’s Oldest Veteran Celebrates 101st Birthday

The Lipford family at Mr. Thomas Lipford’s 101st Birthday parade on May 30 (L-R): Alex Lipford, Carl Lipford, Randall Lipford, Betty Lipford, Mack Lipford, Thomas Lipford, Lawrence Lipford, and Kathy Lipford

(Franklin, GA) — Friends, family, and some local public safety workers celebrated the 101st birthday of Heard County’s oldest Veteran with a drive-by parade last Saturday afternoon in Franklin.

Mr. Thomas Lipford, a Veteran of World War II, was born on May 30, 1919.

He was surrounded by his family as the parade of law enforcement, public safety, friends, and members of his church family drove by to drop off gifts and shout Happy Birthday to the beloved local citizen.

Mr. Lipford’s roots run deep here in Heard county as he is descended from the Lipford, Stephens, Shackleford, Hollingsworth, Echols, Davis, and Newman families – all pioneers coming to Heard County after its formation in 1830.

He graduated from Heard County High School and attended Emory University.

Upon returning home from war, the proud Veteran became a partner in Lipford Grocery and Hardware.

He married Lucille Simmons in 1943 and they proceeded to raise two sons, Lawrence Thomas and Mack Donald.

Not only was Mr Lipford a successful businessman, but he served as a member of the Heard County Board of Education, as Chairman of the Board of Education, as Deacon for the First Baptist Church of Franklin for 58 years, and as Sunday school director for 29 years.

He also served as a Trustee for Rockridge Baptist Assembly.

Mr. Lipford received a James Stewart Chapter NSDAR Community Service Award in 2015 or his service to Heard County and a Certificate of Appreciation for his Military Service. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II.

For his 100th Birthday last year, American Legion Post 148 Adjutant Durell Langley and Post Commander Jim Bishop presented Mr. Lipford with several awards including a Certificate of Appreciation, a Centennial American Legion Pin, and a 100-year American Legion Coin.