Although homegoing services were held for Rev. Ferrell E. Phelps, Sr. on July 6, 2002 at St. Luke MBC, 714 Detering, there isn’t a day that he isn’t remembered. Rev. Frank Coleman, who eulogized Rev. Phelps, never forgets his last words: “Stay close.”

It’s no doubt that Phelps, who was born on Feb. 19, 1943 in Houston to George and Arlene Phelps, was advising one and all to stay close to God and family. When Ferrell Jr., Rev. Phelps’ oldest son and George, the youngest spoke at their father’s funeral, they certainly validated that his chief concern was that his family would always let God direct their path.

Sis. Oneida Springfield, Sis. Pamela Busy and Rev. Grant were also honored to speak at the service, just as the Deacons & Trustees of St. Luke were honored as pallbearers. Chris Phelps, Thomas Phelps, Dale Smith, John Clay, Frank Charles, John Gipson and Warren Clay were active pallbearers for the well loved associate minister, who is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Gladys E. Phelps; two daughters, Sheila Foreman (Ronald), Raychel Bush (Michael); two son; four brothers, Bismark, Thomas, Vander and Stanley Phelps; and sister Conseula. All were blessed because he passed this way.