Dennis Patrick Goergen, 82

April 29, 1943 – January 13, 2026

Dennis Patrick Goergen, 82, former resident of New York and current resident of Tippah County, departed this life peacefully on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Tippah County Hospital in Ripley, Mississippi, surrounded by the care and compassion of those entrusted with his comfort.

A Masonic Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 1:30 p.m. until service time.

Born April 29, 1943, in Buffalo, New York, Mr. Dennis was the son of the late Howard McCool and Alice Blyth McCool. From an early age, Mr. Dennis demonstrated a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and fairness—qualities that would guide him throughout his life. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of New York and devoted his entire professional career to public service as a parole officer in Buffalo, New York, where he was respected for his firm integrity and steady judgment.

Following his retirement, Mr. Dennis embraced a new chapter of life and sought a change of scenery in Mississippi. His journey first led him to the Blue Mountain area; however, through his lifelong bond with Freemasonry, he was guided to Ripley, a place that soon felt like home. In the early 2000s, Mr. Dennis purchased his residence there, where he planted deep roots and became a valued member of the community.

Freemasonry was not simply an affiliation for Mr. Dennis—it was a guiding principle and lifelong commitment. A Mason for more than fifty-five years, Mr. Dennis served proudly as Past Master and held every lodge office at some point in his distinguished service. He was a faithful member of Ripley Lodge #47 and was also affiliated with the Scottish Rite, the Shriners, and the Sons of Confederate Veterans, locally known as Tippah Tigers Camp 868. Through these organizations, Mr. Dennis formed lasting bonds of brotherhood and service.

Mr. Dennis possessed a deep appreciation for history, particularly Civil War history, and found great enjoyment in visiting historic battlefields, attending reenactments, and studying the stories of the past. He also had a passion for antique automobiles, a hobby he greatly enjoyed sharing with his close friend, Mr. David Manard. Together, they attended antique car shows and spent many afternoons cruising the roads, admiring and discussing classic cars along the way.

A man of unwavering truth and seriousness of character, Mr. Dennis was truly one of a kind. He spoke with purpose, stood firmly by his beliefs, and lived by the principle that a person is only as good as their word. Those who knew him understood that Mr. Dennis’s promises were steadfast and his character dependable—a rare and admirable quality that defined his life.

Mr. Dennis will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of integrity, wisdom, loyalty, and quiet strength will continue to live on, leaving an enduring mark on the many lives he touched.

Those left to carry on his legacy include his brother, Robert Goergen, his adopted grandson who he was very proud of, Trevor Hughes, and his brothers throughout the Masonic Lodge.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Mr. Dennis family.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

~

Visitation

Friday
January 16, 2026
1:30 PM to 2:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral

~

Masonic Service

Friday
January 16, 2026
2:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral