William Ray Phelps, Age 72, of Stonewall, Louisiana earned his wings to heaven on February 17, 2019 with his family by his side. His Journey was long and difficult, but now he is at peace with his Lord. Ray was born on January 26, 1947 to W.R. and Rachel Phelps. He was a 1964 graduate of Fair Park High School and an accomplished sheet metal journeymen for 40 years with Sheet Metal Workers Local 361/214. Ray joined the U.S. Navy while still in high school and proudly served six years aboard the USS Hayassampa during Viet Nam Conflict.
Ray married the love of his life in 1967 and they were blessed with three of the most amazing children. Ray’s children, grandchildren and great-granddaughter filled each day with heartfelt joy. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, sports, and woodworking. He was a member of Ingleside Baptist Church for many years and later attended First Baptist Church of Keithville in Louisiana, as his health allowed.
Although it is hard to say goodbye to our love one, we now have peace of mind that he has chosen Jesus Christ as his Savior and is rejoicing in heaven.
Ray is survived by his wife of 52 years, Rebecca; sons, William Scott Phelps and Stephen Brian Phelps; daughter, Amy Diane Cornet; sister Alice Faye Phelps; grandchildren, Cody Phelps, Kayla Cornet, and Kolby Cornet; special great-granddaughter, Lydia Grace Phelps; mother-in-law, Ruth Hollowell; and last but not least, his faithful little buddy, Pudde’.
He is proceeded in death by his parents, W.R and Rachel Phelps and father-in-law, Donnie Hollowell. Ray’s sense of humor and fun-loving spirit was adored by all who were blessed to have known him. Ray spent many hours fishing out of his homemade pirogue with his best friend, Skip Loupe. Toledo Bend was never the same after Ray and Skip spent the day fishing and laughing.
Ray’s visitation will be held Wednesday, February 20 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, February 21 at 11:00 am with Brother Mike Stowell officiating the services. Pallbearers completing Ray’s final journey to Heaven will be Skip Loupe, Chad Loupe, Chris Loupe, Kenneth Dumas, Chris Pender and Buddy Lee. Honorary Pallbearers will be Billy Lee (Mr. Billy) and Craig Loupe.
Special thanks to Christus Hospice Nurses, Susan, Michele and Dedire for being with us during this difficult time and for showing true compassion for Ray.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Wounded Warriors Project, and Houston Methodist Debakey Heart and Vascular Center.
“Forever in our Hearts”
