This is a PDF of the arrangement the choir sang for the Tippett's celebration at FWBBC on June 4, 2009. It may be copied and used for FREE as long as the dedication to the Tippett's is listed as requested. Commercial publication of this arrangement is prohibited. The press release by Jack Williams of FWBBC is listed below.
NASHVILLE, TN—More than 250 people gathered in Free Will Baptist Bible College’s Memorial
Auditorium on June 4 to share in The Celebration!, an evening to honor long-time employees Bert and
Dianne Tippett for their 44-year ministry at FWBBC. For the first time in school history, an event was
streamed live from the college, with more than 500 people logging onto the FWBBC website.
President Matt Pinson said, “We were delighted that so many friends joined us to honor the
Tippetts who have been Christian examples and mentors for four decades. Bert and Dianne embody the
biblical principles of faithfulness and sacrificial love. Their consistency as role models in service has
made them the face of FWBBC to a generation of pastors, parents, and students.”
A 25-voice volunteer choir composed of individuals who sang or travelled with the Tippetts on
choir tours and other music groups performed a special arrangement of “It Is Well With My Soul,” by Dr.
James Stevens, chair of the Music Department.
The 90-minute program included remarks by colleagues, family members, and friends, followed
by a reception in Cumberland Cafeteria. Participants spoke of the Tippetts as co-workers, parents,
friends, Christian examples, and professionals.
Dr. Robert Picirilli, retired academic dean, said, “Bert and Dianne began to rise above the crowd
even when they were students. Both of them offered up, on the altar of this ministry we call Free Will
Baptist Bible College, the sweet-savor sacrifice of excellence. They exemplified how to love God and
submit to His bidding. They continue to set an example for all of us in their own personal lives and
present, difficult circumstances.”
Alumni Association president Frank Owens commended the Tippetts for their faithfulness and
announced that the alumni scholarship will now be known as the Bert and Dianne Tippett Alumni
Scholarship, in honor of their unparalleled service to the college.
Citing the Tippetts’ outstanding work since 1965, President Pinson presented them a plaque of
appreciation. He later shared that FWBBC graduates Gary and Dottie Wright (who travelled from
California to attend) had made a $15,000 gift to the college in honor of the Tippetts.
The Tippetts spoke briefly to attendees. “I’ve never felt more unworthy of anything in my life
than I do tonight,” Bert said. Dianne expressed appreciation for the ongoing encouragement, cards, and
emails as they continue to face Bert’s health issues.
The Tippetts serve FWBBC in the area of public relations. Bert is director of church relations;
Dianne volunteers as mailing list coordinator.
