Tracy Lewis Shiplett

Mr. Tracy Lewis Shiplett, age 59, of Vidalia, died Friday, September 19, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family. He was a native of Montgomery County and lived near Vidalia all of his life. He was a 1984 graduate of Vidalia High School and a 1987 graduate of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry. After college, Tracy started his career in forestry, working for the Georgia Forestry Commission, but on May 29, 1988, he was a involved in a single car accident which left him severely handicapped. Though Tracy could not do what he wanted, his spirit and enjoyment for life was never broken. He was taken care of by his mother who was always there and never left his side. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church and attended First Baptist Church of Lyons. He was an avid Georgia football fan, and he enjoyed deer hunting and fishing.

He is preceded in death by his father, David Shiplett; paternal grandparents, George Shiplett and Eloise Darby Shiplett; and maternal grandparents, Lester Myles Blaxton and Dorothy Palmer Blaxton.  

He is survived by his loving and devoted mother, DeAnne Blaxton Shiplett; three brothers, Brian Durden and wife Alicia, all of Vidalia; Danny Durden and wife Amanda of Glennville, and Carroll Williams and wife Jan of Vidalia; four nieces and nephews. Jacob Durden of Tarrytown, Hannah Durden Hadden and husband Brandon, Meredith Durden, and Jared Durden, all of Vidalia; two great-nieces, Mattie Grace Palma and Emma Kate Palma; one great-nephew, Hunter Palma; and Wanda Driggers McQuitty who had been a loyal and devoted friend since his accident.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00.

The funeral service will be held on Monday afternoon, September 22nd, 2025, at 3:00 at Trinity Baptist Church with Reverend Mitch Bellflower, Pastor Chris Vinson, and Russell Green officiating. Burial will follow in the Williamson Cemetery. The family has asked that all attending the funeral or visitation to wear Georgia Bulldog colors.

Tracy’s family would like to thank Dr. Geoffrey Conner and his staff and Tabatha Johnson with Modani Care who cared for him the last two years, for their loving care and support.  

Those desiring may make memorial donations to the Community Hospice Foundation, PO Box 2277, Vidalia, GA 30475.

Ronald V. Hall Funeral Home of Vidalia is in charge of arrangements.    

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