Dr. William James Phipps, Jr.

Dr. William James Phipps, Jr., age 71, passed away peacefully at home on October 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on August 8, 1955, he was the son of the late William James Phipps and Louise Richardson Phipps.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Donna Jo John Phipps; his children, William James Phipps III, Byron Mason John Phipps (Hope), and Virginia Phipps Hetherington (Sean); his cherished grandsons, Phipps and Wells Hetherington; his sister, Rebecca Dodge; numerous beloved nieces and nephews; and his Llewellin Setter, Pigley.

Bill was a kindhearted man who devoted his life to the service of others, caring deeply for his family, friends, patients, and community. He attended Dinwiddie Elementary and High Schools before graduating from Kenston Forest School. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Hampden-Sydney College, where he was a member of Theta Chi fraternity and played rugby. His passion for science and healing led him to earn a master’s degree in biology from Old Dominion University before graduating from the Medical College of Virginia (MCV) with a degree in medicine.

Shortly after completing his undergraduate studies, Bill married the love of his life and best friend, Donna Jo John. Following his residency at Blackstone Family Practice, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of practicing medicine by joining Sutherland Family Practice as a partner with Dr. Kirby Southall for 37 years and served as an assistant professor at MCV for second year medical students from 1996 to 2026. Dr. Phipps faithfully cared for the people of Dinwiddie County, building lasting relationships with generations of families through his compassion, dedication, and genuine concern for others.

Outside of medicine, Bill embraced life to the fullest. An avid upland game hunter and outdoor enthusiast, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing, as well as listening to music. Above all, he treasured time spent with family and friends. Whether celebrating holidays, gathering for tailgates, enjoying member-guest golf tournaments, or simply sharing time together, Bill found his greatest happiness in the company of those he loved.

Bill’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to others defined the life he lived. His commitment to caring for others continued until the final weeks of his life, a testament to the calling he embraced so wholeheartedly. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, friendship, and love that will live on in the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Christ and Grace Episcopal Church in Petersburg, Virginia. A reception for family and friends will follow in Lackey Hall.

Those wishing to honor Bill’s memory may make a memorial contribution to Christ and Grace Episcopal Church, Kenston Forest School, or the Rocky Run Athletic Association.

Bill will be remembered not only as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, physician, and friend, but also as a genuinely good man whose love for his family, friends, and community knew no bounds. His life was a gift to those who knew him, and his legacy will endure through the many lives he made better.

The family is being served by the Petersburg Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.