Neil Patrick Phelps

A Neptune Beach man is being remembered by those who knew him as a loving father, husband and friend with a wide smile, boundless energy and generous spirit. Neil Phelps channeled his energy into everything he did. He worked hard, played hard and served the community through a network of outreach organizations. Phelps, 44 died Saturday from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident in Ponte Vedra Beach, leaving behind wife, Lisa Phelps and three daughters.

Phelps also leaves behind a legacy of service that friends say embodies his selfless nature. He worked tirelessly collecting clothes, blankets and toiletries, distributing “dignity” bags – purses stocked with feminine products – and serving holiday meals to the homeless with his daughters. Phelps also served on mission trips to Nicaragua through the Church of Eleven22, recently building an aquaponics system for freshwater fish to provide families in the surrounding communities with a stable source of protein, said Lisa Phelps.

A Celebration of Phelps’ life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Church of Eleven22, 14286 Beach Blvd. Guests are encouraged to “bring only love, memories, laughter and happy tears,” said Lisa Phelps. “Please wear your brightest colors as we truly will spend this time celebrating his life.”

Lisa Phelps said she is grateful for the outpouring of support she has received since losing her husband. “This community has reflected Neil’s selflessness and love through this devastating time and for that we are truly grateful, “she said. “As Neil would say during times of trial and heartache, when things are out of control and you wish you could change them, [keep your] head up, shoulders back with a smile on your face,” she said. “Keep moving forward”

Lisa Phelps said her husband was dedicated to serving his community and hopes his memory will inspire others to continue his passion for service. “Find a charity, any charity, and just get involved,” said Gebeaux. “It’s how Neil lived and how he whould be remembered.

Neil was born in Dayton, Ohio on June 21, 1972 and graduated from Fletcher High School. He was a Superintendent for D.R. Horton Construction, member of The Church of Eleven22 and had a passion for church, helping others, surfing and camping. He married Lisa Jane Phelps on May 30, 2015 and was also survived by 3 daughters, Ella, Amelia and Sophia.

In lieu of his death, donations for his 3 daughters can be made to Go Fund Me.

Arrangements under the direction of Beaches Chapel by Hardage-Giddens, Jacksonville Beach, FL.