Delphia "Tootsie" Jane Shipman

Delphia (Tootsie) Jane Shipman was born March 5, 1962 in Whiteville, North Carolina, to the late Artelia Shipman. She made the transition from this world to be with her heavenly Father on Monday night December 6, 2021. Her transition was peaceful, though she was diagnosed and battled with congenital heart failure since her early thirties.
   Delphia was the youngest of four children and was preceded in death by an older brother, Curtis (Puss) Shipman, in December, 1977.
Delphia was a "PRESENCE " from her first breath entering this world, to her last breath, when she departed this world. She lived life on her own terms, leaving a lasting impression on all that she encountered.
   Delphia completed her formal education in Harlem, (New York City), beginning with Kindergarten at P.S. 157, Harriet Tubman Elementary school. She attended P.S. 154 Middle School, graduated, then attended High School of Performing Arts. Throughout her Jr. High years, she excelled in sports, earning a position on the Basketball team. During that period, she and a number of her classmates developed their talents and love of music/singing. This gift of voice was defined and nurtured throughout her high school years, when she joined the choir, which later became A.G.E. Ensemble. The Ensemble evolved, earning significant recognition, inclusive of an opportunity to perform on the soundtrack of the movie "FAME" as well as ongoing performances throughout the United States and Europe. Delphia furthered her education at Hostos Community College, completing her Bachelor's where she graduated with a degree in Human Resources, from Metropolitan College of New York.
   Delphia's education and exposure in performance arts provided opportunities for a diverse work history, from Bank Teller to an extensive history in working with the Deaf/Mute and Hearing-Impaired population, culminating in her Certification as Sign Language Interpreter/Instructor. She embraced this skill set, teaching children in many New York Public Schools Afterschool programs as well as an independent contractor for various City and private organizations. She simply loved teaching sign language to anyone of any age, who demonstrated the slightest interest.
Delphia (Tootsie, aka Del) lived a life full of zest, as she explored all the possibilities that she perceived life could offer. She leaves a legacy of a well lived life, despite physical and other health limitations.
   Delphia leaves to cherish her memory: her brother Henry Lee Shipman Sr. (Brenda), of Greensboro, North Carolina; sister Dorothy Shipman of Brooklyn,  N.Y., a former Partner of some 30 years Elizabeth Edwards of Brooklyn, N.Y.; Nieces and nephews in birth order: Sharon Buckles (Rod) of Atlanta, GA; Unza Postell (Bryant); Ernest Russell Rencher (Leia) of Clinton Township, MI.; Henry Lee Shipman Jr. (Crystal), Joi Rochelle-Artelia Rencher of Ypsilanti, MI  and Taqiya Pauline Shipman (Jerel) of Greenville, SC; six Grand Nephews and Grand Nieces in order of birth: Rashad, Raven, Justyn, Bryant Jr., Brianna and Hunter. 
   Honorable mention to Delphia's Music family, most of whom were TRULY sisters and brothers of the heart; several beloved cousins, 9 God children and a host of other extended family and friends. 
   The family would be remiss if not acknowledging Delphia's church family, Bishop Eric Townsend and the congregation.

Davie Funeral Service of Mocksville are honored to serve the family.

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