Marty Lipham

The world lost one of its sweetest souls on November 2, 2026, when Marty Dewayne Lipham went to be with our Heavenly Father in Junction, Texas.

Marty was born on January 12, 1967, to Leslie Frederick Lipham Jr. and Merita “Rita” Whitehurst Lipham. He was raised in Sonora, Texas, where he graduated from Sonora High School in 1985. Marty was one of seven children, and growing up in a large family helped shape one of the things that mattered most to him throughout his life — family. Family was Marty’s happy place, and as long as he was surrounded by the people he loved, he was right where he wanted to be.

On June 30, 1989, Marty married the love of his life and his lifelong best friend, Darla Marie West. Darla was Marty’s forever and always. There simply was no Marty without Darla. The two built a beautiful life together, full of love, laughter, hard work, and memories that will forever be treasured. Together, they raised three amazing children: Westley Ray Lipham, Walker Ryan Lipham, and Wheeless Ranay Lipham. Marty never missed an opportunity to brag on his kids. He was so proud of each of them, and they were his greatest accomplishments and the reason he worked so hard throughout his life. Nothing made him happier than seeing his family happy.

Ask anyone who knew Marty, and they will tell you his work ethic was second to none. No matter who he was working for or what job needed to be done, Marty showed up, gave it his all, and usually made a few new friends along the way. Early in his career, he worked for the Texas Department of Highways and Public Transportation. He also spent many years working in the family business, Sonora Chemical & Supply, which his family established in 1983. Marty later worked in the oilfield for a few chemical companies and eventually the construction industry. His last job was with Rio Bonito, where he had the opportunity to work alongside some wonderful people who became much more than coworkers — they became great friends. That was just Marty. Wherever life took him, he had a way of turning the people around him into friends.

While Marty believed in working hard, he also knew how to appreciate the simple things in life. He didn’t need anything fancy to be happy. Give him a front porch in Pandale, a cold Budweiser, music, and his family gathered around, and Marty had everything he needed. Those were the moments he loved most. It wasn’t about where he was or what he was doing, but about who was there with him. Marty had a special way of making people feel welcome, appreciated, and loved. Whether you were family, a lifelong friend, or someone he had just met, he had a way of making you feel like you mattered. His smile and hugs will never be forgotten.

Marty was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Frederick Lipham Jr. and Merita “Rita” Whitehurst Lipham; his sister, Annette Lipham Knox; his sister-in-law, Donna West; and his father-in-law Gene West.

He is survived by his one true love, Darla West Lipham; his children, Westley and Alicia Lipham of Midland, Texas, Walker Lipham of Sonora, Texas, and Wheeless Ranay Lipham of Sonora, Texas; and his grandson, Connor Brooks Lipham of Midland, Texas, who brought another special kind of joy to his life. Marty also shared a special bond with Willie Munoz, who was so much more than Wheeless’ boyfriend. To Marty, Willie was like a third son, and their relationship was one he truly treasured.

Marty is also survived by his siblings, Fred and Erica Lipham, Clifton and Michelle Lipham, Curtis and Lisa Lipham, Donna and Ronnie Shortridge, and Debra and James Cowsert; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Frances and Steve Tackel of Sonora; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Maray and Rick Cearley of Sonora; and his brother-in-law, Kevin West of Big Lake. Marty also leaves behind many special nieces and nephews, each of whom would probably tell you they were his favorite.

Marty’s life was rooted in the West Texas communities he called home, but his greatest legacy will always be the love he gave to the people around him. He worked hard, loved his family fiercely, treasured his friendships, and found happiness in the simplest moments. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, countless friendships, and a family who will forever be grateful for the time they had with him.

The world is a little less bright without Marty in it, but those who were lucky enough to know him will carry a little piece of his kindness, his laughter, and his love with them forever.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 704 SCR 104 Sonora, TX 76950 at 5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your chosen charity in Marty's name.