Dr. Thomas B. Ripy IV, PhD

11/04/38 to 8/23/24

Thomas passed away peacefully in his sleep in his home at 85. Born in Anderson County, he married Minnie Sue Ripy in 1965. He was a lifelong scholar with degrees from Transylvania University, Memphis State, Vanderbilt University, and the University of Kentucky.  He was a congressional research service lawyer and a professor. He enjoyed teaching others, could talk with anyone, and always had a story to tell. Also widely known for his knowledge of bourbon history, specializing in Anderson Co. Kentucky, the history of which his family played a large part.

He is preceded in death by parents Thomas Beebe Ripy III and Hazel Overall Ripy and his beloved wife Minnie Sue. He is survived by son Thomas, granddaughters Billette & Valentina, as well as grandsons Harley, Wesley, Curran, and great granddaughter Lucy. He is also survived by brother J B Ripy, along with sisters Jane, Melinda, Olivia and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 11 am – 2 pm Monday, August 26, 2024 at First Christian Church followed by the funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM Monday.  Rev. Jim Wheeler will officiate the service.  Burial will follow in the Lawrenceburg Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Tom Ripy, Harley Ripy, Curran Ripy, Rodney Robinson, Graham Spencer, and Johnny Ripy. Honorary bearers will be Luke Robinson, Jackson Ratliff and Allison Bell.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Jill Tyler Hurst Memorial Playground, c/o First Christian Church, 300 South Main St., Lawrenceburg, KY 40342.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home, Lawrenceburg, KY. Condolences to the family may be expressed at http://www.ritchieandpeach.com.