Richard Elliot Phelps Sr.

November 16, 1936 - June 16, 2021

Richard Elliot Phelps Sr., affectionately known as “Papa”, of Sweetwater, Tennessee passed away on June 16, 2021. Papa was born in Springfield, Massachusetts to the late Herbert and Edna Phelps. Papa was the loving husband to Velma Phelps for 64 years. Papa was a Veteran of the United States Army and served in the Navy Reserves. Once Papa retired from the Army, he began to drive trucks, and when he wasn’t working, he attended church at Watsons Chapel. Papa is predeceased by his parents Herbert and Edna; 1 son, David Phelps; 4 brothers and 4 sisters, 2 great-grandchildren. Papa is survived by his loving wife, Velma; his 3 sons, Richard Phelps Jr. (Shirley), Herbert Phelps (Rosemary), and Terry Lee; his daughter Bonnie Hollon; 1 sister, Marilyn Thompson; several grandchildren and several great grandchildren;3 adopted children, as well as many other family and friends. The family will receive friends and family at Kyker Funeral Home from on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, 10 am – 12 pm followed by a service at 12 pm.