Sandy Knipp, age 62, of Knipp Road, Morehead, Kentucky, an acclaimed musician, songwriter, educator, radio host, and a beloved family member, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 10, 2012, at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky. Sandy was born October 28, 1949, in Olive Hill, Kentucky, a son of the late Lawrence and Ola Belle Stevens Knipp. Sandy is survived by his wife, Deborah Maple Knipp, whom he wed June 18, 1995; one son, Terry Knipp and wife Nikki of Morehead, Kentucky; two stepsons, David Hansen of Covington, Kentucky, and James Hansen of Columbus, Ohio; two daughters, Leigha Hale and husband Jason of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, and Shelli Knipp and husband Gene Glover of Clearfield, Kentucky; one stepdaughter, Emily Hansen of Morehead, Kentucky; and 13 grandchildren, Julie, Lawrence, Olivia, Brice Thomas, Elijah, Isaiah, Sarah, Conner, Adalynn, Hannah, Crayston, Abbi, and Baby Girl Hale to arrive in December 2012. Other survivors include one sister and three brothers, Ollie Lou Plank and husband Curtis, Austin Orville Knipp and wife Mary Ann, Danny Dale Knipp, and Jimmie Lin Knipp and wife Clara, all of Morehead, Kentucky; nieces and nephews; extended family members; and numerous friends. Sandy graduated from Morehead State University with Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees, Rank I certification, and Elementary School Principal and Supervisor of Instruction endorsements. He began his 27-year career in education at Upper Tygart Elementary in Carter County, where he taught physical education and coached basketball, track, and volleyball. Later Mr. Knipp moved to Haldeman Elementary as Head Teacher/Principal. He retired from the Rowan County School System in 1998. A prolific songwriter, singer, and musician (guitar/banjo/bass), Sandy's works are celebrated around the globe. Known as an 'Ambassador for Bluegrass music,' Sandy was passionate about preserving the culture and promoting Bluegrass music. His songs have been recorded and performed by renowned artists and bands such as Don Rigsby, Bluegrass Strangers, Scott Tackett and Kentucky Sunrise, Goldwing Express, and Darvin Sturgill. Sandy always fostered local talent and promoted rising artists. The first director of MSU's Kentucky Center for Traditional Music, Sandy was instrumental in its creation. Sandy also emceed countless popular shows and festivals such as Americana Crossroads Live and Appalachian Celebration. Through the years, he played and sang in numerous and varied groups, including Bear Creek, The Touch of Grass, and White Horse String Band. Sandy greatly enjoyed hosting 'Bluegrass Diversion,' a MSU Public Radio program, for more than 20 years. He was also a sketch artist, woodworker, gardener, poet and author, recently publishing through the Jesse Stuart Foundation 'Set Another Place at the Table.' Sandy's many recognitions included the 2002 Appalachian Treasure Award and a Resolution on the Senate floor acknowledging his fortitude, spirit, and service. He was owner of Knipp Holler Recording, a member of BMI, a Kentucky Colonel, and a member of Johnson First Church of God. Sandy will always be remembered for his unshakeable, enduring faith in the Lord; very special love for his grandchildren; exceptional commitment to educating children; advocacy for organ donation; and reminding everyone to 'Smile, sunshine is good for your teeth-and so is Bluegrass music.' Funeral services will be conducted 2 p.m. Saturday, October 13, 2012, at the Johnson First Church of God with Pastor Ben Furman officiating. Other participants will include Brother Aubrey Kautz, Jr., Bob Christian, and Brother Johnny Hatfield. Burial will follow in the Knipp Cemetery on Knipp Road. Pallbearers will be Michael Knipp, Harvey Pennington, Ron Dobler, Fritz Keller, David Hansen, James Hansen, and Lawrence Conn. Visitation will be after 3 p.m. Friday, October 12, 2012, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals and after 1 p.m. Saturday, October 13, 2012, at the Johnson First Church of God. Memorial contributions are suggested to Johnson First Church of God Youth Group, 590 Cranston Road, Morehead, KY 40351. Visitation: Friday, October 12, 2012, 3 p.m. Northcutt & Son; Saturday, 1 p.m. Church Funeral: Saturday, October 13, 2012, 2 p.m., Johnson First Church of God Interment: Knipp Cemetery, Knipp Road