Vernon L. Phelps

Vernon Lloyd Phelps, age 89, of Cromwell, CT passed away Wednesday, April 26, 2017 surrounded by his loving family.

Vernon was born on September 25, 1927, in Stafford Kansas, to the late Cora (Kent) Phelps and Alvin Phelps.  At an early age Vernon began teaching in a one room school house in Kansas.  Vernon was a strong believer in education and went on to be a College Professor and Minister with dual standing in the United Methodist Church and the United Church of Christ.  Vernon was a religious scholar and taught religion and cultural studies throughout his life.

Vernon and his wife of 67 years, Mary Phelps, traveled around the world multiple times.  In the late 1950’s they served together as missionary teachers in Sierra Leone.  They enjoyed working with people of different cultural backgrounds and helping those they could along the way.  They also enjoyed including their children and grandchildren on their journeys. 

Vernon was known by all to have a great sense of humor and was a great “punster”.  One never knew what he would say or do next to make you laugh.

Vernon is survived by his beautiful wife Mary Woelfle Phelps; their sons, Michael Phelps, Mark (Carol) Phelps and daughter Linda Phelps Fish.  He is preceded in death by his daughter Marsha Phelps.  He is also survived by his grandchildren; Erin Phelps Smith, Emily (Brandon) Longe, Adam Phelps, Megan Phelps, Alex Phelps, Michael Fish and Mary Fish as well as multiple great grandchildren, nieces and nephews and a sister Evelyn Brown.  He is preceded in death by multiple brothers and sisters.  The family would also like to make mention of special family members: Kenneth Fish, Deborah Solesky and Yoshino Uchiyama.

The family will visit with friends in the Chapel of Potter Funeral Home in Willimantic, CT on Tuesday, May 2, 2017 from 5pm to 7pm.  Funeral Services will follow on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at 10:00 am in the Sanctuary of First Church of Christ, UCC in Mansfield, CT.  Pallbearers will be Michael Fish, Alex Phelps, Brandon Longe, Jacob Longe, Noah Longe and Randy Phelps.  Honorary Pall Bearers will be Great Grandchildren: Mckenzie, Claire and Abigail Smith and Myles Longe.  Other Honorary Pall Bearers will include: Dennis Phelps and Ricky Phelps, nephews. For an online memorial guestbook please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com

 Service Information