William Earl Phelps, Sr.

William “Bill” Earl Phelps, Sr., passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at the age of 91. Born in Sampson County, North Carolina, Bill was raised in Plymouth, NC and settled in Chesapeake, Virginia where he raised his family, and was a longtime resident of Bracey, Virginia.

Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Rosemary Phelps. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rose, and children: Audrea Cherry (Stan), Monica “Susie” Strickland (Kenneth), Karen Sadler (Jon), and William “Billy” Phelps, Jr. (Allison). He was the proud grandfather of 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Bill is also survived by his brother, Wilbur Phelps, Jr.

He was preceded in death by his father, Wilbur Phelps, Sr.; his mother, Charlotte Phelps; his siblings, Melba Old, Vance Eugene Phelps, Sr., and Fran Glass; and his beloved grandson, Henry P. Strickland, Sr.

Bill dedicated 37 years of hard work as an iron worker with Local Union 79 of Norfolk, where he earned the respect of his colleagues through his strong work ethic and integrity. He was a Master Mason of Lake Drummond Masonic Lodge No. 178 in Chesapeake, Virginia, and faithfully served in many roles on the Board of Directors of the River Ridge Association for many years. His most beloved position was that of Head of Security, where he was always accompanied by his faithful bullhorn!

A faithful member of River Ridge Chapel, Bill loved serving his church, especially through singing in the choir. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, and hunting, simple pleasures that brought him great joy and often created cherished memories with family and friends.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt and special thank you to all that have assisted but especially Justin and Crystal Linke, close friends who are thought of as family, for their unwavering love, support, and care.

Bill will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a man of steadfast faith and quiet strength. His legacy of love, hard work, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life with Masonic Rites will be held at River Ridge Chapel in Bracy, VA on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 2:00 PM. The Chapel will host a reception for family and friends following the service.