NANCY SHULTS FLIPPEN
Nancy Shults Flippen, 89, the only child of John Brooks Shults and Eleanor Finley Shults, died peacefully on February 11, 2023. She was born in Hope, Arkansas, and reared in the Hopetexarkana area. Following a stellar high school academic career, she entered Randolphmacon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, Virginia. It was there that she met her husband-to-be on a blind date.
After two years at Randolphmacon, Nancy transferred to Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, to be closer to family. She was an active member of Pi Beta Phi sorority and was graduated with an AB degree.
Shortly after her marriage on July 3, 1955, Nancy moved to Norfolk with her husband, James H. Flippen, Jr., and as he began law practice, she began teaching English at Norview High School. When her children came along, she stopped teaching but engrossed herself in civic affairs. She worked in the thrift shop of the Junior League of Norfolkva. Beach and published the League’s newsletter. She was a docent at both the Chrysler Museum and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. In the latter capacity she participated in the Douglas Macarthur funeral in 1964. One year she was president of the Meadowbrook School PTA.
As her children grew, Nancy resumed her career in education, this time teaching English and history at Norfolk Academy in 1978 for 22 years. She was innovative with new programs, and she also coached the girls cheerleading squad. Nancy was instrumental in the development and expansion of the ninth grade speech program and the literary magazine. She was honored as the outstanding teacher in the middle school. While teaching and taking care of her family, she took night classes at Old Dominion University and earned her master’s degree in the humanities.
After over twenty years at Norfolk Academy, Nancy retired and resumed her civic activities in earnest. She was a weekly mobile meals volunteer, a Stephens minister, and a hospice worker. Her King’s Daughters Circle and her monthly book club claimed much of her time and enjoyment. Her membership in the Colonial Dames of America was a source of pride. She was a devoted member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd.
Above all, Nancy’s children and grandchildren were the loves of her life. To all of them she was known as “Beeba,” and over time she reveled in their various activities and achievements.
Over the years Nancy Flippen touched so many lives. Middleaged former students constantly approached her with loving memories. Her ever-present broad smile, her gentle manner and gracious behavior, and her constant concern for the welfare of others will forever be her hallmarks. Rest in well-earned peace, Beeba!
Nancy is survived by her husband of 68 years, Judge James H. Flippen, Jr.; by one son, Dr. John Brooks Flippen (Celeste); by one daughter, Mary Flippen Peccie (Richard); and by seven grandchildren, to-wit, Kathryn Flippen Kenerson (Michael), James H. Flippen, IV, Maya Caroline Flippen, Emily Francis Flippen, Brooke Virginia Peccie, Brian Christopher Peccie, and James Tucker Peccie; and by one great-grandson, Russell James Kenerson. She was predeceased by her son, James H. Flippen, III.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00a.m. Monday February 20, 2023 at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Norfolk. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www. hdoliver.com.