Jodi “GiGi” Tipton has been an unsung hero for decades in service to her Jacksonville Beach community, friends, church, and country. She has been a friend to those in need and a model citizen. Jodi and her late husband Bob have been two visionary volunteers who have been serving others and unselfishly dedicated their time throughout Northeast Florida. They were the “go-to” couple to spearhead charitable, patriotic, and community action functions. Together and separately, this adorable couple has done more for many than anyone can imagine. A few examples of their special achievements in community outreach and service to our country include:
Volunteered at the Jacksonville Shands University Hospital to help care for infants subjected to prolonged exposure to crack cocaine. They cared for these “crack babies” 4 times a week for many years.
They worked to build the popular Beaches Sunshine Park, the large, child-friendly park in Jacksonville Beach that is a highlight of the community.
They worked for cancer awareness and fundraising, child abuse, and student assistance. They worked and spoke with others about the need to vote and actively oversee government at the community, state, and federal levels. If an issue was to be resolved, the Tiptons were in the thick of it to get it fixed.
Nearing their 80s, Bob and Jodi began gathering flowers every morning from the Jacksonville Beach Trader Joe’s Store. The Tiptons deliver the flowers without charge to shut-ins, lonely residents, nursing homes, churches, nonprofits, police stations, schools, and service organizations.
Jodi was awarded the Certificate of Commendation in recognition of her continued dedication and work for the community by Jacksonville City Council member Al Ferraro. She was awarded the “Unsung Hero” recognization by We Can Be Heroes President Beth Heath.
Well Done, Jodi Tipton.
