Posted February 5, 2002

John L. Nipper, 77, of Cleveland, Tn., a retired Cleveland Utilities employee and walking horse trainer, passed away December 19, 2001 at Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, Tn. Nipper was a member of the First Baptist Church of Cleveland.

Nipper was a well-known local horse trainer. He was a member of several organizations including the Walking Horse Trainers Assc., East Tennessee Walking Horse Boosters Club, and was an inductee in the Old Timers Club Hall of Fame in basketball. He was a strong supporter of the Tri-State Agriculture Center in Cleveland and was instrumental in its development.

Nipper was survived by his wife, Billie Nipper, two children Joel Nipper and Jeanna Officer both of Cleveland; three grandchildren and one great grandchild.