Macon Water Authority Mourns Death of President and Executive Director Ron Shipman

Shipman had served in the role since 2022 and was praised for his collaborative leadership and commitment to the organization's mission.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Macon Water Authority announced the passing of its president and executive director, Ron Shipman, who died on Friday evening. Shipman had been appointed to the interim role in 2022 and was later named to the permanent position, where he worked with the authority's board, employees, and community partners on water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure projects serving Macon-Bibb County. Prior to joining the authority, Shipman spent over three decades with Georgia Power in various leadership roles.

Why it matters

Shipman's death is a significant loss for the Macon Water Authority and the broader Macon-Bibb community, as he was described as a committed leader who served in multiple capacities. His passing will likely have an impact on the authority's ongoing projects and operations.

The details

Shipman was appointed interim president and executive director of the Macon Water Authority in 2022 and was later named to the permanent position. During his tenure, he worked closely with the authority's board of directors, employees, and community partners on critical water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure initiatives serving the Macon-Bibb area. Prior to joining the authority, Shipman spent over 30 years with Georgia Power, where he held various leadership roles before retiring.

  • Shipman was appointed interim president and executive director in 2022.
  • Shipman was later named to the permanent position of president and executive director.
  • Shipman passed away on Friday evening.

The players

Ron Shipman

The president and executive director of the Macon Water Authority who passed away on Friday evening. Shipman had been appointed to the interim role in 2022 and was later named to the permanent position, where he worked collaboratively with the authority's board, employees, and community partners.

Gary Bechtel

The chairman of the Macon Water Authority, who described Shipman as a dear friend and committed leader who was dedicated to the authority's success and mission.

Macon Water Authority

The organization that announced Shipman's passing and expressed condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

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What they’re saying

“Personally, Ron Shipman was a dear friend, and it is a personal and painful loss. As a professional, Ron gave his all to the Macon Water Authority and was committed to its success. He was a leader in our community, serving in multiple capacities, and Macon-Bibb mourns his passing. On behalf of the members of the Macon Water Authority, we ask for thoughts and prayers for Ron's wife, Anita, and his entire family.”

— Gary Bechtel, Chairman, Macon Water Authority (41nbc.com)

What’s next

The Macon Water Authority stated that it will release information regarding memorial arrangements or organizational updates as appropriate.

The takeaway

Ron Shipman's passing is a significant loss for the Macon Water Authority and the broader Macon-Bibb community, as he was described as a committed and collaborative leader who was dedicated to the authority's mission and served in multiple capacities. His death will likely have an impact on the authority's ongoing projects and operations, and the community is mourning his loss.