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William Carlos Phelps, age 90, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025 at his residence in Somerset, Kentucky.
William was born August 12, 1935 to the late Luther C. & Nannie Ellen (Stephens) Phelps in Ruth, Kentucky. William faithfully served his country as a proud veteran of the United States Army. Yet his greatest devotion was always to his Lord and to the calling placed upon his life. He poured his heart into preaching the Gospel, sharing God's Word with humility and conviction. Whether standing behind a pulpit, singing hymns of praise, or offering encouragement to someone in need, he lived every day with a deep desire to point others toward Christ. His passion for evangelizing and pastoring touched countless lives, and his remarkable ability to memorize Scripture was both a personal joy and a testament to his unwavering dedication.
He is survived by four children, Jerry Phelps, Judy & (Tommy) Miller, Janet & (Buster) Lambert, and Johnny & (Caroline) Phelps; six grandchildren, Jennifer Rainey, Julie Ann Daniels, Nancy Rose Phillips, Misty Hembree, Marshall Keith, and Rachael Sharp; and several great- and great-great grandchilren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Dessie R. Phelps; one daughter, Joyce Phelps; one grandchild, Michael Lee Phelps; and six siblings, James Ross, Luther Phelps, Herman Phelps, Irene Massey, Margaret Hogue, and Lucille Phelps.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home with Bro. Ernie Wyatt and Bro. Tommy Hogue officiating.
Burial will follow at Jacobs Hill Cemetery in Waynesburg, Kentucky.
The family will receive friends Thursday from 11:00 AM until time for services at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home.
Military honors will be performed by American Legion Post #38.
Morris & Hislope Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5900 N. Hwy 27 P.O. Box 159, Science Hill, KY 42553
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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