Mary Jane Tipton

Mary Jane Tipton, 82 of Mancelona passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2026 after a brief illness.

She was born July 20, 1943 in Cramerton, North Carolina, the daughter of John and Thelma (Robinson) Rigler and spent many happy years growing up there. Once she had her own family, she continued to take them back "home" every other summer as she raised them.

Mary proudly served her country in the United States Army. On April 1, 1963, she married Herbert Tipton and together they celebrated 63 years of love and happiness. Family was very important to her and she was always surrounded by them and supported them in all their endeavors.  Together they took many trips to Wakami Lake Provincial Park in Canada, where they enjoyed camping and fishing for days. Mary and Herb raised Dachshund dogs over the years and many had a special place in her heart.  Mary also enjoyed spending time gardening, was an avid reader, and enjoyed sketching in her younger years.

Mary was the loving wife of Herb, devoted mother to Thomas (Sandra), Susan, Thelma (Scott), and Catherine, a warmhearted grandmother to Bruce, Michael (Tiffany), Christine (Karl), Elizabeth, Samantha, Nathan, Nicholas (Madison), Rachel, Michael, Brian, and Andrea, a nurturing great grandmother to many, a caring sister to Linda (Terry) and Susan, and several nieces and nephews.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, son in law Justin, twin sister Martha (Mark), and brother in law Harry.

A visitation will be held Thursday, April 30th from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. 

Arrangements are in the care of the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.