of London, AR

January 1, 1936 - December 25, 2012

William Earl Phelps, 76
January 1, 1936 December 25, 2012

William Earl Phelps departed his earthly life on December 25, 2012 in lovely Piney Bay, AR.

He served his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ with passion. In so doing, he served his fellow man - a mission he took seriously and fulfilled to the fullest of his considerable ability. He was a preacher, teacher, church planter, counsellor and generous friend to all who knew him. Staff Sergeant Phelps trained as an electronics technician during his service in the United States Air Force, and serviced avionics on the Korean War era F-86 Sabre jet. His electronics skills secured his employment at an observatory on the island of Maui, Hawaii. He moved there from California, to answer God's call to ministry. He planted a church on Maui and pastored for over ten years. Answering God's call again he moved to the Arkansas/Oklahoma area where he planted a church and established a Christian school near Van Buren, AR. Additionally, he helped with the new Flat Rock Worship Center building. He strengthened many with his service for the Lord.

He will be sorely missed but fondly remembered. He will be especially missed by his faithful, loving wife of 58 years, Margaret Phelps. He also left behind a daughter, Debra Adkins and her husband Benny Adkins from Van Buren, AR, and a son Ronald Phelps and his wife Cindy from Raytown, MO, seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.


Mr. Phelps funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 29, 2012, at Flat Rock Worship Center, with Bro. Chip Howington officiating. Burial will follow, with full military honors, at Fort Smith National Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Joel Houck, Nathan Phelps, Daren Bell, Michael Adkins, Aaron McKee and James Huss.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Leonard Baker, Ed Evans, Jimmy Higby, Gary Willcutt and Earl Trimmer.

Arrangements are under the direction of Roller-Cox Funeral Home (479) 754-2201. Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com

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