Lois Shipman Dykes

Lois Shipman Dykes, 92, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2022, lovingly surrounded by her four children.  Lois was one of 10 children born to Norman H. and Beatrice Barbaree Shipman in Barbour County, Alabama on May 2, 1930.

Mrs. Dykes was a graduate of Barbour County High School in 1948 and was Valedictorian of her graduating class.  She continued her studies at Troy State Teacher’s College and was an honors graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics.

Lois met Frank, the love of her life, on a whim when she accompanied her sister Sarah to the pharmacy where he worked and eventually owned. She was somewhat hesitant to make the trip, jokingly saying that she couldn’t go “to town” with curlers in her hair because she may meet her husband.  Well, that is exactly what happened.  Frank told many people that he thought she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.  They started dating and were married for 60 years and were blessed with four children. 

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Frank; and all 9 of her siblings; a son-in-law, Bragg Carter; granddaughter, Lauren Nicole Austin; and a great granddaughter, Lawson Olivia Holmgren. 

Survivors include her daughters, Anne Carter, Nancy Gunter (Tony), Karen Outlaw; and her son and caregiver, Dan Dykes; her grandchildren, Laurel Rasberry (Shane), Claire Schaefer (Mark), Megan Henderson (Tyler), Kevin Holmgren (Sydney), Taylor Pair (Taylor); four great grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Lois was an active member of Salem Baptist Church and taught Sunday School for many years. She was also a member of the Three Arts Club, enjoyed traveling, gardening, China painting and was an avid reader. An excellent cook, many pastors and church members knew her well for her love of cooking. 

She was a deeply caring and devoted mother and grandmother and dedicated her life to her family and was happiest when surrounded by children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A deeply committed Christian, Lois loved serving the Lord.

The family wishes to recognize her special friend and neighbor, Jennie Jackson Gilmore and to express their deepest gratitude to the caring individuals of Compassus Hospice for their wonderful and compassionate care, notably through Dot Maulden, Karen Williams, and Amy Hixon.  As per her wishes, a private family ceremony was held December 7, 2022, at Green Hills Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem Baptist Church, 217 South Main St, Brundidge, AL 36010, or Tunnels to Towers (info at https://t2t.org/donate), or the charity of one’s choice.