Starlyn "Star" Dianne Gipson, 74, died October 16, 2022 at Diversicare of Hutchinson.  She was born August 8, 1948, to J. R. "Bob" Gipson and Virginia Palmer.

A 1966 graduate of Newton High School, Star received her Bachelor's degree from Bethel College and Master's Degrees from both UC Davis and Friends University.  She was a firm believer in the positive impact of higher education in people's lives.  Star's career in higher education included teaching and supervising in the Early Childhood Education program, as well as student counseling at Hesston College, and she retired from Hutchinson Community College (HCC) as Executive Director of Academic Support.  She continued to teach online courses for HCC in 2022.  Star's ongoing support of students, as well as fellow faculty and staff, is one of the legacies of her long career.

She was an active member of First Mennonite Church in Hutchinson.  Star served in a variety of volunteer roles over many years – from Sunday School teacher, worship leader, to work with local poverty programs.  She lived her faith through her service to others with a focus on "the least of these".

Star is survived by:  her son, Alex; friends, Kenneth Cornelsen, Michelle Sherriff, Jarrett Sherriff, and Rob (Sarahjane) Cornelsen; and many friends around the area.

She was preceded in death by:  her father and mother; and best friend, Connie Cornelsen.

Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Thursday, October 27, 2022, at First Mennonite Church, 52 Rambler Road, Hutchinson, KS.  Persons wishing to view the service online may email the church at office@hutchfmc.org to request a private link.  Inurnment will follow the service in the church columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First Mennonite Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.