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James Phelps Obituary
Phelps, James Edward
Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church passed away on March 29th, 2023.
Predeceased by his beloved wife Sally (nee Jersa); Loving Father of James E. Phelps III (Maria) and Sarah E. Phelps (Allan Simmons); Adoring Grandfather to James E. IV "Jed" and Milo. Friend to many.
Jim was a graduate of SLUH, St. Louis University, St. Louis University School of Law, JD, and Washington University School of Law, LLM. After marrying the love of his life, Sally, he served as a US Navy JAG Officer in Vietnam, followed by a dedicated 50 years with his law firm in Clayton. He deeply adored his family, enjoying road trips and family gatherings. A lifelong fan of the Cardinals, College Sports, and his grandsons' sports teams.
Services: Immacolata Catholic Church, Visitation Tuesday, April 4th at 9:30. Funeral Mass following at 10:30. Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made out to: Immacolata St. Vincent de Paul.
Memories and Condolences
for James Phelps
4 Entries
Bob Benner
April 11, 2023
Jim and I grew up together. We were next-door neighbors and I remember playing ball in the driveway of his house. I was not the best neighbor and we drifted apart when we were in school but later in business we reconnected and I found him to be the person I always knew he would be - a man of outstanding character. Jim helped me through some really tough years back in the 90s and I always took his advice. Thank God I did. I remember him saying clearly to me on several occasions, "let´s take the high moral road." We did.
I saw him recently at the Dierbergs in Warson woods and we spoke for just a couple of minutes. He had just retired, and I made a note to call him and invite him to come out for dinner with Patty and I.
Farewell to you, my friend, you were one of the finest people I ever knew.
Your children are welcome to contact me if they would like to talk,
Bob Benner
314-302-4018
Mike Jung
April 4, 2023
I had the honor of working with Jim for over 20 years. A true gentleman and a professional´s professional. Very few people possess the integrity and honesty that Jim had.
Always kind with a smile on his face and always had the right advice at the right time. He will be missed.
Bob Reiter
April 4, 2023
Jim and his wife, Sally were introduced by my wife, Jodie, while we were in law school at St. Louis University in 1966. We cherished our friendship, getting together for Mizzou football games and visits to Rocheport every year. We loved them and their children, Sarah and Jimmy, and had so much fun together. Jim and Sally were godparents for our daughter, Ellen at her baptism. We sadly miss them, but know they are in heaven´s good place together. The world was so blessed to know them.
Bob Reiter
Patrick Kenny
April 2, 2023
Jim and I were very close at SLUH. He gave some good insight and will be missed.
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