RICHMOND, Ind. – Joseph Wayne Phelps, age 72, of Richmond, Indiana, passed away peacefully Friday, November 23, 2018, at his home.
Born February 24, 1946, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Joseph “Joe” Phelps and Beatrice Bullard Phelps, Wayne was a resident of Richmond since 1965. He volunteered for the Centerville Youth League, where he was the commissioner and coached many teams. Wayne enjoyed playing Bingo, bowling, and relaxing on his porch. He especially enjoyed watching his granddaughters play golf.
Wayne was an optician for many years, before ending his 17 year career as a technical support engineer at Essilor of America. He was a member of Company D, 151st Airborne Rangers, the most decorated infantry unit in the Vietnam War. Wayne was married to his wife for almost 53 years, and during the last 6 years, he was her primary caregiver. His faithfulness was a blessing to her and the entire family.
Survivors include his daughter, Melissa (Jesse) Owens of Richmond; son, Mike (Tina) Phelps of Bloomington, Indiana; granddaughters, Haley (Garrett) Bascom of Indianapolis, Indiana, Kayla (Grant) Esposito of Marion, Indiana, and Karissa Owens of Richmond; niece; cousins; and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Sue “Susie” Phelps, who passed away March 25, 2018; mother, Beatrice Ceigler; father; sister, Ruth Fietelson; and brother-in-law, Sid Fietelson.
A private graveside service will be held at Earlham Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Wayne County Vet Guard VFW Post #1108, 213 South 8th Street, Richmond, Indiana.
Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.