Zoe Tipton's Obituary
Zoe Tipton
1963–2025
Zoe Tipton passed away peacefully at her home in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on January 19, 2025. She was born near Tokyo, Japan, on January 17, 1963, to Sun T. and James C. Tipton.
In 1966, Zoe’s family moved to the United States, but tragedy struck shortly after when her father, James, and grandmother, Leola, were lost in a car accident. Despite these early hardships, Zoe grew up surrounded by love and strength. After her mother remarried, Zoe gained a stepfather, James Swanson, and the family relocated to South Carolina and Oklahoma. Music became a cherished part of the household, sparking Zoe’s lifelong passion for it.
Zoe attended Del City High School, where she developed many talents and passions. She played basketball in junior high and later became a bodybuilder in her early 20s. After graduating, she attended beauty school in Oklahoma City, earning her license as a hairstylist and national recognition for her work.
Zoe achieved whatever she set her mind to. She taught herself to play guitar, bass, and drums and sang in a band. She was also a talented artist, crafting heartfelt and beautiful gifts for loved ones. She loved movies and often brought laughter to sibling hangouts by reenacting favorite scenes with accents.
Zoe cherished her travels, from visiting family in Greece to adventures in Miami and Los Angeles with her sister Jane. Beautiful and charming, she naturally drew people to her and was always surrounded by friends. A devoted animal lover, she shared special bonds with her pets, including a robin named 4-5, family poodle Bess, Jindo-gae Daeji, and her cherished dog, Uno.
Zoe carried her mother’s memory close to her heart to the very end.
She was preceded in death by her father, James C. Tipton, in 1967; her mother and stepfather, Sun T. and Neil F. Devoe; and her grandparents. She is survived by her siblings, Jane, John, and Michelle; her stepdad and stepmom, James and Sandy Swanson; her nephews and nieces; and her beloved dog, Uno.
Zoe’s warmth, humor, and love will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.
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