Dr. James W. Lipscomb, Sr. transitioned on September 24, 2025 at the age of 78. Dr. Lipscomb was born in Opelika, Alabama, on September 27, 1946. He was the son of the late John and Carrie Lipscomb, who passed away when he was a young boy, and then he was raised by his aunts and uncles, particularly Sylvester and Viola Carlisle of Opelika, AL.
He graduated as salutatorian from Darden High School in Opelika, AL, and then attended Talladega College, where he made the Dean’s List and was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts/Premed in 1969. He met his classmate and wife of 55 years, Ruby Cooper Lipscomb, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest and Alma Cooper, while attending Talladega College.
He then taught general science for several years at Monroe Junior High School prior to attending The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Upon graduation from the OSU College of Medicine in 1977, he enrolled and completed his Family Medicine residency at Grant Hospital. Then, he established his own private practice and practiced medicine for over 25 years.
Dr. Lipscomb and his wife, Ruby Cooper Lipscomb, PhD, have been married over 55 years, living in Columbus, OH. They have 3 children, James Lipscomb, Jr, Eric Lipscomb, MD and Angela Lipscomb-Hudson, MD. His oldest son James Lipscomb, Jr, who was a supervisor of environmental health in Fulton County, preceded him in death.
He was also preceded in death by his brother Moses Lipscomb and his sister Johnny Mae Lipscomb. Dr. Lipscomb is also survived by 4 grandchildren, Preston Lipscomb, Haron Hudson, Harmonie Hudson, and Luke Lipscomb. He is also survived by 1 brother, Jimmy Lipscomb, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.
Overall, he enjoyed practicing medicine, teaching, and spending time with his family. He was a fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, a member of the Family Practice Advisory Board at Grant Hospital, and a member of the ECCO Family Health Center Board. Above all, he lived a fulfilling life with his family and friends, and he was much appreciated in the community, especially by his patients.
Visitation will be held on Oct. 3, 2025 from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm with a Funeral Service immediately following at Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Service, 1370 East Main Street, Columbus OH. Burial will process to Northlawn Memory Gardens, Westerville.
To leave a message of condolence please visit his Guest Book.