Charles Shipman

Charles Eugene Shipman, a longtime resident of Bull Shoals, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at the age of 92. He was born on May 23, 1933, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Buel and Grace Shipman.

Charles grew up in Oklahoma City alongside his siblings, Ruth and Claude, during the Great Depression and World War II. Surrounded by cousins and neighborhood friends, he enjoyed a childhood filled with games, music, and close-knit family ties.

After graduating high school, Charles pursued his passion for music by singing in several gospel quartets, including the Sooner State Boys. His musical journey eventually led him to the ministry, where he served as a pastor in the Assemblies of God denomination. He pastored churches in Yale and Geary, Oklahoma, and simultaneously developed his talents in architecture and homebuilding.

In 1970, Charles and his family moved to Bull Shoals, Arkansas. Over the following decades, he established himself as a skilled architect and custom home builder, leaving a lasting imprint on the region through his craftsmanship. He was a generous mentor to local teens, often seen teaching them to water ski on Bull Shoals Lake behind his beloved boat.

Charles was a devoted father and enthusiastic sports fan, never missing an opportunity to support his sons in their athletic endeavors or cheer on the Arkansas Razorbacks. His community affectionately remembers his Christmas gift boxes filled with homemade pralines, bonbons, and peanut brittle, as well as his famous peach ice cream during summer gatherings.

An avid tennis player well into his later years, Charles earned numerous championships in both men’s and mixed doubles at local, regional, and national levels. Above all, he cherished his role as a grandfather, faithfully attending his grandchildren’s performances, graduations, and special events.

Charles is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Shipman of Bull Shoals; his sons, Chuck Shipman of Austin, TX, and Doug Shipman of Atlanta, GA; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Buel and Grace Shipman, and his son, Grady Shipman.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Newton Flat Cemetery.