Paul and I went from elementary school thru high school together. Such a kind guy. Always smiling.  
God bless his family and all who knew him 
Rest easy Paul

I told my daughters last night around the dinner table about a wonderful 7-8th grade Sunday school teacher who had meant a lot to me at a vulnerable and sensitive age.  They will never have the privilege of meeting Mr. Phelps but in some ways will feel his impact through the influence he's had on my Christian walk. What a gift he was to so many young people that passed through that class under his care. Never too busy to talk, never showing preference but genuinely seeing each individual. He was friendly, humble, kind, spirit led and full knowledge about God's word. We could tell he wasn't just there to check a box each Sunday but was seeking God on our behalf and leaning on the Spirit to help him share what we most needed to hear. I've long looked back on him as one of the more influential people grounding me on my faith journey due to the kind and genuine Christian example he set.  I'm thankful to have known him and his family and to have his example of a life well lived for Christ. Much love to you his dear family!

Faithful Husband, Devoted Father, Loyal Child of God, Friend to All - just a few of many words to describe the wonderful legacy of Paul’s life.

There are truly so many cherished memories I have with Uncle Paul. Any memory I recall of Paul, he is always smiling and laughing with some much joy. Paul truly loved with a heart full of joy for the Lord, his family, and others. 

Uncle Paul, thank you for the loyal husband, father, uncle, and friend that you have always been. Thank you for pointing so many others to Jesus and faithfully serving Him. Thank you for the Christ filled example you have been also to my sister and I all through our lives even into adulthood. You were always present and full of joy - a joy that your children carry and now steward so well for their families too. Your life and legacy will remain an encouragement to others to serve Christ and to serve others. We miss you and love you so very much, Paul.

Uncle Paul - your humor, welcoming handshake and ever-learning spirit will be greatly missed. A kid from Lynchburg that impacted his community by furthering the kingdom. Your legacy lives on through your children and grandchildren. 

Aunt Suzanne and Cousins - I’m grateful for you guys. Thank you for setting a worthy example of Christ’s love for the church. You’ve been in our prayers and will continue to be. 

Love,
Josh, Audrey, Olivia, Harrison and Bennett Knight

Phelps family,
I am so sad to hear of Paul’s passing but also rejoice knowing he is with the Lord and no longer suffering.  
I have many fond memories of Paul. Many of them involve riding in the station wagon, hearing him cheer at basketball games, laughing with my dad, and breakfast after sleepovers.   He treated me like another daughter and I will forever be grateful for that.

I still have the journal that Paul and Suzanne gave Jac and I when our daughter passed away.  Not sure,  if I ever truly thanked him or said how much it meant to us.  I know that each entry and bible verse that was shared with us, was him showing us, how much he cared for us and toe love that he had for the Lord.   I pull that journal out every so often and read it.  I can truly say they were there for us during the roughest time of our life and  their prayers and support was present.  I pray Suzanne,  you will have peace and comfort from the Lord as you go through this difficult time.  We love you and will be praying for all of you.

I’ve known Paul for over 25 years. He was my salesman when he worked for a couple of trucking companies and during that time we got to know each other very well. My wife and I even went out to dinner once with Paul, his wife and kids. What I appreciated most about Paul was his honesty and straight talk. For example, if something I was having shipped to my company was late, Paul would look into it right away. He made no excuses for the company and made sure I was given the tracking number and he would follow the shipping by computer until it arrived at my shop, so I would have the best outcome possible. I never had a better salesman! Paul was the best! He will be missed by all who knew him but never forgotten. God Bless,

Steve & Schre Shockley

I just wanted to say that we are sorrowing with you all, but sorrowing with hope! Your father was an example of faithfulness and humble service. I will always remember him as my junior high Sunday school teacher with his Ryrie Study Bible faithfully teaching us goofy boys. Though I cannot say I remember any specific thing he said, his love for God's Word was impactful. On top of that, the way he served at the Salvation Army, quietly and behind the scenes sharing the Gospel regularly, continues to convict, motivate, and encourage me. I also remember his humor and cheerfulness whenever I would come over to your house to hang out or spend the night. These are some of the first things that come to my mind when I think about him. And I know that, in Christ, his labor has not been in vain, and that one day he will receive the full harvest in the resurrection (1 Cor. 15:56-58).

Mr. Phelps was such a kind, friendly man who loved Jesus. And everyone he came across knew it because he shared Jesus with everyone. His testimony was a light to so many. Praying for you all through this great loss. 

- Lauren Wood

We met Paul and Suzanne after Aaron and Megan began corresponding. Over time, it was easy to see that Paul and Suzanne complemented each other so well, and they loved Jesus. They were always a delight to be around. 
Paul's godly character directed the family's path. The comments written here by family and friends testify to the consistent focus of Paul's life--his dedication to being a follower of the Lord Jesus, "doing all things to the glory of God" (I Cor 10:31). This included Paul's obvious devotion to his wife and Paul's love for his family, serving them well; he loved being with all of them. When he was around people, he was always ready with a smile, often adding something fun in the conversation, bringing happiness to others. 
We are reminded in Matthew 12:34 and Luke 6:45 that whatever is in our heart comes out of our mouth (and our lives).  These verses remind me of a time, not that long ago, when I was listening to Paul singing songs about Jesus. He just kept singing the songs, commenting that the songs were so good. His heart loved Jesus, and even when his mind was growing dim, Jesus was his focus. What an example!  
II Thessalonians 2:16-17 "May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God our Father, who loved us and by grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good thing you do or say."

While working the front desk for many years at Valtim and I had the distinct pleasure of meeting and chatting with him there while he was working for Old Dominion and Overnite trucking companies. I can honestly say that he was one the nicest guys ever! He spoke often of his wife, kids, and grandkids with so much love and joy♥️. RIP Paul....you were needed here on Earth but God needed you more in Heaven....🙏🏼💔

I always enjoyed Mr. Paul Phelps as my  Sunday School teacher in middle school. I will always remember in class him writing the words of the Casting Crowns song “Who am I” as he emphasized how big the world is and how special it was that God individually cares and loves each of us.  He loved Jesus and wanted everyone to know how awesome and caring our Savior is. I’m so sorry for your family’s loss.

The hardest words to write and still No words can ever console the loss and void a loved one leaves behind. Few people are blessed to know a soul as pure as Paul. He was a devout father, husband. Son and brother. He cared for others more than most and was always there with a big ole smile and a chuckle to go with it. Bobby. Paul and Daddy always together at family dinners together once again. We love you Paul,  Prayers and hugs for the family in the days and months ahead.

It’s hard to find the right words for someone who gave so much of himself so freely. Paul was one of the kindest, most joyful people I’ve ever known. He had this amazing way of lighting up a room with his smile and laughter—he was full of warmth, humor, and genuine love.

From the very beginning, he treated me not just like his daughter’s friend, but like part of the family. Every time I walked through the door, I was welcomed with open arms. He made me feel seen, cared for, and truly cherished. Their home became a second home to me, filled with the kind of comfort and belonging that’s hard to describe but impossible to forget.

He always put his family first—and somehow, his heart was still big enough to hold space for everyone around him too. I’ll never forget the day he lovingly buried my cat in their backyard. It was such a quiet, compassionate act, and it meant more to me than I can put into words. That’s just who he was: someone who showed up for others with sincerity, tenderness, and strength.

Paul will be sorely missed, and I am forever grateful to have known and loved him. Cory and I are holding your family in our hearts during this heartbreaking time. His warmth and kindness will never be forgotten.

Brother Paul
Was a man of god. He was a god fearing family man. I remember Paul going and witnessing about Jesus. I also remember great childhood memories fishing together at Piney River.
Also he was very supportive to me and my family when I lost my daughter. One day soon we will be reunited.

To the Phelps family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I'm so thankful to have known Mr. Phelps. He was so special to me and made me feel like I was one of his own kids when I came over to hang out with Megan. He always made me laugh and was always full of joy when I saw him. 
May this verse bring you comfort in this difficult time. Psalm 34:18 -The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

So very sorry for your loss! Praying your precious memories are a great source of comfort. 🙏♥️

Love all these pictures!  Your dad was a special man who loved the Lord!  Praying for your family at this difficult time.

Dearest Megan,
We’re so saddened by your loss but remembering that your loving Dad is now in glory—with a perfect body—and with his Saviour. He’s free from all pain and sorrow—looking forward to the reunion with all his loved ones. May the Lord bring you peace and comfort during these coming days. 

Love,
Becky

My heart goes out to you all. He was always such a light anytime I saw him around TCS...never without a smile. He also made any sports game extra entertaining hearing him yelling in support from the bleachers. What a gift to have such an incredible husband and father.

Jonathan, so sorry man - your dad was incredible and always knew how to make us laugh and feel welcomed. Whirlwind of emotions right now, I’m sure with your beautiful newest addition to the family. You’re in my thoughts and you have confidence that your father is happy and whole now.

Your dad was a treasure! Such a good man! Praying for your whole family.

As a college student at Timberlake who mainly did life with other college connected people, there are a few NON-college connected church people who stand out to me as seeming to go out of their way to make me feel welcome to the bigger church and your father is pronouncedly one of them. 

It’s no one special memory. In fact, this Haitian girl by way of NY and NJ didn’t always understand all the words your dad spoke as to my ears, his southern accent was THICK boy, 🥰but his friendly smile, a pat on my back, the way he’d say “Vanessa….” and then proceed to say something funny, always made me smile or laugh for the best reasons. 

I love the quote that says something like  “people don’t always remember what you say or did but how you made them feel!” I guess I’m finding this to be true in my memory of your dad. 

I remembered noticing his absence at some point and learning he was taking care of your mama and then hearing of his own sickness and that she was, in turn, taking care of him! What a beautiful picture of faithfulness in marriage! 

I am so honored to have met him as he was one of the many people I’ve encountered in my life who, even through minimal contact, taught me the power of a friendly and kind gesture! I will never forget that as long as I have my own right mind! 

May God grant you all a special measure of comfort in this difficult time!

I can’t think of any couple who has fulfilled Ephesians 5:22-32 better than Suzanne and Paul. I will be praying for the family.

I am so sorry for your loss, Jonathan, and grateful that your dad is no longer suffering and is with Christ. When I think about your dad, I am truly grateful for the example he set. As a child, I thought that caring for the poor meant giving to a benevolent fund once a month. Your dad showed me what it actually meant to show up in person and love like Jesus. He regularly spent time with people who were homeless, addicted, incarcerated, and living in poverty. When I served with him and a group of others at the Salvation Army, I noticed how he treated each person with the same dignity, respect, and kindness that he did his fellow church members. He cared about - and helped provide for - their physical needs as well as spiritual needs, and in doing so, he radiated the love of Jesus in a really beautiful way.  I don't think I realized at the time what an impact that was making on me, but I'll always be grateful for his example of loving like Jesus.

Suzanne I am so saddened by this. I remember when you and I would walk down a certain hall at E.C. Glass High School just so you could see Paul!! You both were so in love with one another from the very beginning. Paul was such a great guy!! I am sending hugs and prayers to you from GA.❤️🙏🏻

Sorry for your loss,  I will always remember Mr. Phelps as a kind loving man who loved to make us laugh as kids.  So many years ago, I knew when the Phelps were teaching Sunday School, we were going to have fun.  Thank you for all the years of commitment to us kids in Sunday school and Awana.  I will be praying for you.

We will always remember Paul and his love for his family.  Always reaching out to help with mama (Nanny) and taking her riding for ice cream or where ever she wanted to go.  I am praying for peace and comfort for Suzanne, you and all his children whom he was so proud of and loved so much.

Aunt Dee

I've been praying for you & your family. Paul was always such a nice man...he will be missed!

I’m very sorry to see this. I always enjoyed talking to Paul. He was very friendly and fun to talk with. Praying for you and your family Suzanne.

Suzanne I am so very sorry for your loss. Paul was a great man.

I am so sorry for your loss! Paul was a very sweet man, and I’m grateful I knew him.

I am so sorry for your loss… while it’s been years since I last saw Paul, his legacy is that I never ever saw him without a smile on his face. Sending you prayers of comfort.

Suzanne,  I am so sorry for your loss.  I am rejoicing in the fact that he is healed and with his Saviour. I am continuing to pray for you and your family. Your marriage & faithfulness to the Lord and each other is an inspiration. 《HUGS》❤️

Paul was a special man of God. Praying for you and your family, Suzanne

We're praying for you and your family. Mr. Phelps was always an example of love and grace. I know he will be greatly missed. ❤️

Thinking and praying for you all, I always loved seeing you both at church! Mr. Phelps will be very missed! Love you all

Suzanne, I know that Paul was the love of your life. I have watched both of you work through difficult circumstances throughout your years together with faith & grace. Each of you stayed committed to the vows you made to each other on your wedding day & it was very apparent that you were best friends as well as husband & wife. 
I know the last few years were very hard for you & when things got even harder with Paul’s declining health, you never wavered in your dedication in caring for him. The same was true for him when he cared for you during your illness…such great love!
He was the best brother I could have ever had & he loved my girls like they were his own. That means a lot to me. We will miss his funny stories & shenanigans. What a super guy! 
 I love you & I’m praying for all of you.

Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers Suzanne. You two truly had a love we all dream of. A best friend, a partner and love of your life! What a beautiful family you have created together! What an incredible legacy of love and faith! Love you!

Praying the Lord holds you all so tight…

Paul was always so kind to me as a child. My parents were going through a rocky divorce when I was in middle school and I always felt loved and accepted at the Phelps home.

Paul was a special person and was used greatly by God.

So very sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful man and a servant of the Lord.  Always greeted me and asked about my children when I would see you.  Fond memories from Timberlake days.

I’m so thankful for his testimony and love for others. I am praying for you and your family!

I am so sorry for your loss.  Paul was a Great person.

I’m sorry!  Your dad was an amazing person (and a saint for putting up with us when we were kids).   I’m thankful he’s no longer suffering. Praying for all of you during this time.  Hugs!

So very sorry for your loss… he was such a sweet man who loved the Lord and made every effort to share Jesus with others. Praying for you and your family 🤍

We are so sorry to hear about your loss. He was a wonderful and godly man. Love your family. We are praying for you all. 💕🙏💕

There is no greater loss than our mom and dad. They love, guide, and teach us all our lives. The one thing they can’t teach us is how to go on without them. Your dad was one of the truest souls I have ever known.  He will be missed more than words can say. Hugs for you all.

I’m so sorry!!! I love your parents! He was always so kind !!

I am so sorry. I have so many sweet memories of your precious dad. Praying for you and your family, that the Lord will give you the peace that passes all understanding. Your daddy is with Jesus!! What an amazing thought... yet that doesn't make us miss him less. Love you! 💜💜💜

I'm so sorry.  He was always so happy when I saw him. Always  told us about you kids, and his grandchildren. You could tell he loved you all so much. I'm praying for you all!  ❤️❤️

Megan & Family, your Dad was so kind & funny. Your parents were the first to come and  visit us after we attended Timberlake. We always loved working with them in AWANA, Children’s Church and being in Pastor Brodies Class together. We are praying for you all. 🙏

I'm so sorry and will be praying for y'all! He was always so kind and friendly, and I learned so much on his Sunday School classes!

So, so sorry, what an awesome man! Praying for comfort and peace for your sweet family 💙

Your dad was such a sweet soul. I know his absence will be felt deeply. Praying for your family. ❤️

Praying for you, Megan ❤️ He was a great man and always smiling. I always enjoyed hearing him cheer for us in the stands.

I am so sorry Megan! Your dad was always such a light anytime I saw him around TCS...never without a smile. What a gift to have in a father. ❤️ As a fellow daddy's girl,  I know all too well the ache you are experiencing now. You, and the whole family, are in my thoughts. 🙏

I’m so sorry!  I have many fond memories of him, especially his work with our college group during my time at Timberlake!  Praying for all your family and friends.  Hugs!

I'm so sorry for your family. He was always so kind. Praying for you all!

Hugs and prayers for your family!  Love Paul and Suzanne—and always remember their kind, gentle mannerisms ❤️

So sorry for your loss.  We always loved joking with your dad.  He was a great guy.  We are praying for your family.  <3

Sending you big BIG hugs!!! I’ll never forget his smile and his voice cheering for us from the stands during sporting events! What an incredible man he was …. And there’s no doubt he sure did love you with all of his heart! ❤️

Your father was a good man.  My condolences and prayers for you and your family.

I am so sorry…. He was a wonderful man! Tristan loved staying with your parents when he was little. Prayers of comfort for you and your family!

He truly was the best. Made me feel so loved and seen always in Sunday school or in Awana… praying for you!

Oh my goodness. I’m so sorry! I know he was the best dad! Such a big loss. 🥺

We have known Paul and Suzanne for 40 years and our memories are of just faithfulness. Paul was kind, funny, loving and passionate about Jesus. He ministered in a jail ministry and loved to share the gospel.  He will be missed so much but there's great comfort in knowing where he is and that we'll see him again. Love to Suzanne, Jason, Megan, Jonathan and all the family

I remember when Paul was the first neighbor to introduce himself when we moved into Rainbow Forest. He walked over, and said, "Hi, I'm Paul Phelps. Phelps, like the Olympic swimmer, but I'm not an Olympic swimmer!" He laughed, so of course, I laughed too. I will miss him, but I rejoice in his ultimate healing and presence with our Lord. I am praying for comfort and peace from our heavenly Father for his family.

What a sweet, sweet man. Paul always wore a smile on his face and was a pleasure to speak with. His positivity was contagious. He served others and his community well with eagerness and enjoyment.  He will be missed by many. Rest in peace, Paul, your race is won, but we will see you again.

Uncle Paul, your faithful love for the Lord & your family will always be remembered. You gave us some of the best memories, hugs, & laughs and covered us in prayer. Hilarious, kind, devoted, supportive, genuine— some of the many words that make me think of you. Life here won’t be the same without you but we look forward to enteral life with you again one day. We love you!

We have so many precious memories with your family..... my favorite has to be his reaction to our late night phone call to babysit when our son was on his way... lol. Love to you all from all of us Bears. AKA, the Wheelers.

Suzanne and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. I remember that you and Paul were such a beautiful couple. Although we did not stay in contact as much as I would have liked, it is obvious you had a beautiful family and wonderful life.  Sending prayers your sweet memories will bring you and family peace and comfort.

Love and Hugs,
Joyce Eubank

Paul and Suzanne have been very dear to my family over the years.  What a Sweet and Godly couple.  We attended Church with them and when my Dad was sick back in 1994 Paul was our Deacon.  What a blessing he was to us. After my Dad went on to Heaven we would receive a very sweet card in the mail on the anniversary every year for the next 30 years from them. It was such a nice thing for them to do and it really blessed my Mom.   Paul was always so upbeat and encouraging and what a man of great faith!  Suzanne, we are here for you if there is anything you need.  Paul,  I know you are rejoicing in Heaven where your faith is now sight.

Paul Phelps was a kind, godly man.  I remember him as an excellent teacher of the word  of God  and  a believer who was always ready to share the gospel and encourage others.  His ready smile and his kind heart will never be forgotten.   Thank you, Paul, for your shining testimony and godly example to me and many others over the years.   You will be missed, but we will see you again.

Your Dad was always so happy and up lifting . He loved to share the gospel with others! His big booming laugh and smile!!!! That’s what I remember the most! He left a legacy that is worth following after. My heart aches for your loss .. he was an incredibly kind man.

To all you, please know you are in my prayers.   I think the world of your family and I will never forget Paul and Jack on the sidelines at the TSC basketball games, or the time we all went riding around  Lynchburg with a car load of kids looking at Christmas lights and Paul and Jack talking on the 2 way radios.  Cherish your memories  and thank God for the hope we have that we will one day see our loved ones again who have died in Christ.    Linda G Fowler   (Jason & Amy)

Anyone who knew the Phelps clan, knew we were a loud bunch that loved to get together. We loved a big picnic at Miller Park, Rivermont Park, or the Peaks of Otter. Going to Meek's to get a hot dog and a piece of pie was one of our favorites. Back in the days when us kids were growing up, getting married, and adding to the "clan" were precious times. We all grew up within a couple of miles from each other and could ride our bikes to visit family. There were 10 of us grandchildren and we always had crazy, fun times whenever we were together. Paul and I were 4 months apart in age and enjoyed that bond. The years have flown by but the memories will always be with us. Praying for all of our "larger" family now asking God to comfort them and give them peace. Prayers for Suzanne, as she had been married to him for most of her life and has cared for him well.

OBITUARY

Paul Deane Phelps

21 August, 1958 – 5 June, 2025

Whitten Timberlake Chapel

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