Rusty Eugene Phelps

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Russell "Rusty" Eugene Phelps, who left us on January 25, 2026 at the age of 62. Born on August 13, 1963 in Jackson, Mississippi, to Calvin and Mary Katherine Phelps. Rusty lived most of his life in Winnfield, Louisiana; graduating in 1981 from Winnfield Senior High School. Rusty later earned his educational bachelor's degree from Northwestern Student University. In 1987, he married the love of his life, Martha Russell.

Rusty devoted much of his life to education and coaching. He began his coaching career in Belzoni, Mississippi where he coached under Dominick Bevelaque at Humphrey's academy. He later moved to Newellton, Louisiana where he coached at Newellton High School from 1990 to 1992 where he coached both softball and football. In 1992, he moved to Lake Charles, LA where he worked and served as an assistant coach at McNeese State University under Defensive Coordinator, Kirby Bruchhaus, and Head Coach Bobby Keasler. In 1992 Coach Phelps joined his wife at Jennings High School where he taught and coached under Matt Viator before being named head coach in 1995. He faithfully served in that position until his retirement in 2023, leaving behind a legacy as a mentor to countless students and athletes, and a friend to many within the community. Rusty was known for his unwavering spirit and passion for coaching and sports.

Rusty will be remembered as a loving husband to his wife, Martha Phelps, and a devoted father to his sons, Russell "Peyton" (Kimberly) Phelps, and Walker Talmadge Phelps. He treasured moments spent with his granddaughter, Sawyer Ann Phelps. Also left to cherish their memories of him are his mother, Mary Katherine Phelps, his brothers Benjamin Phelps and Jonathan (Yukie) Phelps; his sister-in-laws Reba Phelps, Rebecca Russell, Juanita (Arnie) Grammon, brother-in-law John (Paula), 12 nieces and nephews as well as all of whom will carry his memory in their hearts.

Rusty was preceded in death by his father, Calvin Phelps; his brother, William (Billy) Phelps and his mother-in-law, Clara Russell.

A gathering of family and friends will take place on Wednesday January 28, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Jennings, LA, starting at 4:00 PM, and will conclude at 8:00 PM. The following day, Thursday January 29, 2026, visitation will resume beginning at 8:00 AM, at First Baptist Church, leading up to the time of his service.

 A funeral service to celebrate Rusty’s life and legacy will be held at First Baptist Church on Thursday January 29, 2026, at 11:00 AM with Brother Eric Sonnier officiating.

He will be laid to rest following the service in Greenwood Cemetery in Jennings, LA, under the direction of Miguez Funeral Home.

Please join us in remembering a man who inspired many, shared countless laughs, and loved unconditionally. Rest easy, Rusty—you will be dearly missed.