We share the loss of Gary L. Phelps who died on June 2, 2024 at his home in Harrisonville Missouri.
Gary was born on November 5, 1944 at the old Wetzel hospital in Clinton Missouri to JD Phelps and Catherine (Scrogham) Phelps. Catherine was alone at this time as JD was fighting overseas during World War II. It would be almost a year before he would meet his son.
Gary did most of his growing up in Clinton Missouri, graduating from Clinton High School class of 1962. He was a prankster with many fond memories of adventures with his high school friends. Able to afford only one year at the University of Arkansas, Gary came home to Clinton to work for the Peabody Coal Company.
He was later employed by Kansas City Power and Light as an electrical technician at the Montrose station. He also served as President of Local 412 Brotherhood of Electrical Workers until his retirement in 2002.
Gary served in the National Guard in the mid 1960s. He was united in marriage to Joyce J Howell on September 1, 1967. They had two sons, Coy and Skyler. Gary attended the first Baptist Church in Clinton Missouri. He enjoyed coaching various sports in Clinton and is remembered fondly by many young athletes. He loved being involved in Coy and Skyler‘s academic and sports activities.
Gary‘s father was a Baptist minister. Church hymns introduced Gary to a lifelong love of music. He was founding member of The Rowdy Boys band who were seen performing around the Truman Lake and Lake of the Ozark areas. He loved to dance, sing and play golf. He was a member of the Clinton Elks, Clinton Eagles, and Clinton Country Club. Gary enjoyed traveling to Texas and Nashville in his Casita camping trailer. He loved people and made many lifelong friends along the way.
Gary is preceded in death by his Father JD, Mother Catherine, Sister Karen Lawler, Sister Pam Lewis and Brother D.D. Phelps.
Gary is survived by his son Coy Phelps of Lee’s Summit, MO, son Skyler Phelps of Gladstone, MO, granddaughter Nicole Phelps of Harrisonville, MO, Sister Vicki Caldwell, And beloved life partner, Glenda Manville of the home.
A celebration of life will be announced.
