Fern Tripp, 90, of High Ridge died Jan. 1, 2025, in Fenton. Mrs. Tripp was the third youngest of 13 children. She was a stay-at-home mom and Sunday school teacher until her children started school. She then became a bus driver for Northwest School District and eventually went on to train other drivers. She retired in 1979. In her spare time, she enjoyed planting and caring for her flowerbeds. She also enjoyed cheering on her favorite team, the St. Louis Cardinals. Fittingly, her favorite bird was also a cardinal. Most of all, she loved spending time with family and friends. Known for being devoted to her faith, she will be remembered for her love, strength and nurturing spirit. Born Oct. 6, 1934, in Cape Girardeau, she was the daughter of the late Guy and Estle (Hawkins) McNeely.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years: Jerry Tripp.
She is survived by three children: David (Sandi) Tripp, Richard Tripp and Cheryl (Robert) Scott; five grandchildren: Brian (Jen) Tripp, Shauna (Stephanie) Lawson, Benjamin (Breanna) Scott, Emily (Karl) Pearson and Sam (Hunter) Tripp; two great-grandchildren: Evelynn Scott and Allen Scott; and numerous other family members and friends.
She also was preceded in death by her siblings.
Visitation is scheduled from 10 a.m. until a funeral service at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at Chapel Hill Mortuary, 6300 Hwy. 30, in Cedar Hill. Burial will follow in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary.