Jarrod Tippens, Jr.

“It’s time to succumb ... I am tired of trying to overcome.”

Jarrod Dwayne Tippens, Jr. was born in Oklahoma City, Okla., on April 3, 1996. He completed his journey in this life on Sept. 7, 2018.

St. Regis was Jarrod’s home for the past 18 years. He attended school in St. Regis through his freshman year, and graduated with honors from Superior High School in 2014. His greatest pride in high school was being a part of an undefeated basketball team that went all the way to state his senior year.

He was attending the University of Montana in Missoula and studying English. He was a proud member of the Black Student Union, serving as vice president of that organization, which was very active in trying to help others with dismantling racism, and to accept and understand all diversity in the world.

Jarrod also worked for the Student Involvement Network at the University and was responsible for assisting in campus events such as Prose and Poems and The Black Solidarity Summit. He created “Trivia Night The Office.” It is an event that has drawn interest from over 400 attendees.

Among Jarrod’s many attributes was his ability to communicate with young people, children gravitated to him whenever he was around them. Jarrod was also a loving brother who more than anything hoped to be a positive role model for his brother and sister. He had a great rapport with his elders working summer jobs for them through high school. Jarrod had a remarkable grasp of the English language and its usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and demanded it from others.

The “Gentle Giant” rarely displayed extreme love but when he did he did it with his whole heart. Honest to a fault, if you wanted an answer then you better be prepared for nothing but the truth. Jarrod’s smile could light a dark room, his hugs were impressive making the receiver feel comfortable and secure. He was loved deeply, admired greatly, and will be missed incredibly by all those who know him and loved him. Kind, generous, willing, capable, and unforgettable. Although a shortened time here, he left his imprint on all who know him.

Peace Jarrod ...

He is survived by his loving grandmothers, Dr. Gerry Gotcher and Dee Breen; his siblings, Jaylen Gotcher and Justice Tate; his mother, Nicole Gotcher; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

A gathering honoring his life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 14 at the St. Regis Community Center.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Project Tomorrow Montana (Suicide Prevention and Education), P.O. Box 7395, Missoula, MT 59807.