Thomas Hendricks Tipton, 68, of Tryon died June 9, 2011 at Spartanburg Regional Heart Center. He was the son of Ross Frederick and Helen Lucile Hendricks Tipton of Tryon.
He retired seven years ago as director of communications for Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla.
He was an avid hobbyist in model trains, wrote and published a book, “Unofficial Guide to Universal Studios,” and liked to travel around the United States and Europe. He was also a fan of the figures of the old West and was currently writing a book on the history of the West.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by a daughter, Christina Hammock, and her husband, Damion, of Orlando, Fla.; a sister, Mary Catherine Holcomb of Tryon,  and three grandchildren.
No services are planned.
Memorials may be made to the Foothills Humane Society, 989 Little Mountain Road, Columbus, N.C. 28722.
Condolences may be left at www.pettyfuneralhome.com.
Petty Funeral Home and Crematory, Landrum.