Jimmy Ralph Phelps, 93, of Fort Smith, Arkansas passed away Monday, November 24, 2025 in Fort Smith. He was born November 15, 1932 in Midland, Arkansas to Edward and Lillian Louise Phelps. He founded the Cal Western Packaging Company in California in 1971, retiring after 43 years in 2014. He also owned a cattle ranch and racehorses, was a member of Lighthouse Family Worship in Witcherville and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Ann Phelps; two sons, Ron Phelps and wife, Carin and Randy Phelps; five grandchildren, Randi Michelle and husband, Shandall, Carrie, Tyler and wife, Destiny, Jake and wife, Samantha and Nick and five great grandchildren, Jackson, Brady, Aubrey, Ayla and Judge. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Scott Phelps; a grandson, Neil; one brother, Edward Phelps and two sisters, Naomi and Mary Katherine.
Viewing will be Monday from 1 – 7 p.m. at McConnell Funeral Home in Greenwood, where the family will visit with friends from 5 – 7 p.m. The family will have a private graveside service at Mount Olive Cemetery in Midland.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com.
