James R. Phelps Jr.

James R. Phelps Jr.,75, passed away on February 4th, 2021.
He was born January 22nd, 1946, in Concord, NC to James and Alma (James) Phelps Sr. In the 1950’s Jim’s family moved to Longview from N.C. He graduated in 1965 from R.A. Long High School, and served four years in the Navy during the Vietnam War.
In 1967 he married his high school sweetheart, Shirley. He had a passion for cars and owned Classy Coachworks Body shop. He raised his two children, Jason and Jennifer. In 2000 he felt a calling from God to retire and pursue his love for short term missionary work, which took him all over the world, making friends and preaching.
Jim was known for being the neighborhood helper in every neighborhood he lived in. He would always see a need, fill a need. There was no question that he displayed his love for God by showing selflessness to whoever he helped.
He loved race cars, fishing, woodworking and missions travel. Family was very special to him. He would pray daily for each one and be available to help them around their homes. He has a reward waiting for him in heaven, and we see treasure all around us as he left his mark on all of our lives.
He is survived by his wife Shirley (Lessard); son Jason (Vena) Phelps; daughter Jennifer Phelps; son Kip (Lilly) Lessard, all of Longview. He was a proud papa to six grandkids, Kenzee (Ryan) Anders, Kolby (Nicole) Phelps, Kaszee (Grant) DeSpain, Kailyn (Garyn) Bowen, Kynlee Raglin, Kingston Raglin. And four great grandkids, Rylenn, McKenna, Jameson, and Beckham. Two sisters, Linda Peppers (David) and Charlotte Merwin (Roy) also survive.
Viewing February 10th and 11th at Steele chapel from 10am-5pm. Celebration of life will be at Calvary Chapel, February 12th at 6pm.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Jim’s honor to Lamplighter’s ministry.