Thomas "Tommy/Tj" E. Gipson, Jr.

Thomas “Tommy/TJ” Ellsworth Gipson, Jr., 49, of Rockford, IL, departed this Earth on August 18, 2021. He was born on July 16, 1972, the son of Thomas Ellsworth Gipson, Sr. and Toni Diane Suprenant.

Tommy was a 1990 graduate of Auburn High School and attended Blackhawk Technical College. He had an unwavering devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He appreciated the simple things and cared deeply for anyone connected to his life. He was always quick to lend a hand or strike up a conversation with anyone. It’s safe to say that Tommy never once met a stranger.

Tommy had a very strong work ethic, was incredibly resourceful and could frequently be found tinkering on anything and everything, whether it needed it or not. He took great pride in his work, no matter what it was he was doing. He lived his life according to this principle and quietly encouraged others to do the same.

Tommy was truly a big kid at heart and could find humor in just about anything, even if it didn’t belong. He thoroughly loved music and movies, had a passion for reading and for sending letters that included inspirational messages. He had a soft spot in his heart for animals and a genuine love for all of God’s creatures.

Tommy’s kind and gentle soul will be greatly missed by many, most of all by his sister, Tina. Together they shared an unbreakable bond of everlasting love. She was true North on his compass and he needed nothing more than to know she was safe and happy. We will all miss Tommy’s charm, his laugh and his contagious smile.

When the dust settles, we will realize how little we need, how very much we actually have and the true value of human connection. A special thank you to the McKinney family for their constant support through the years and to Ms. Carly’s for their acceptance and love.

Tommy is survived by his sister, Tina Gipson of Phoenix, AZ and his half-brother, Brett Gipson of Rock Island, IL. He is preceded in death by his parents, Tom Gipson Sr. and Toni Suprenant.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 7, 2021 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Memorial Service will follow at 6:00 p.m. Cremation rites accorded with Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Cremation. Memorials may be made to the family for a cause to be determined. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.