William Thomas Phelps, Jr., 83, passed away January 25, 2023. Bill was born in South Norfolk, Virginia to the late William and Ruby Sutton Phelps. He was a 1957 graduate of Oscar Smith High School, and then attended both East Carolina and Old Dominion University. Bill was an avid runner and completed three full marathons, He grew up in a country music family and enjoyed listening to music and singing along with his sisters and brother-in-law Ed whenever he had the chance. Bill was a sales representative for over 40 years and retired from Certainteed Corporation at the age of 65. During his retirement he loved playing golf, working out at the Y and watching his grandchildren play ball. Bill lived with Parkinson’s Disease for over 30 years and never let it stop him from being active and thoroughly enjoying every moment of life. He was a member of River Oak Church where he loved being involved with his life group.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 64 years, Patricia Whitmore Phelps; son, Craig Phelps and wife, Staci; daughter, Amber Dunlow and husband, Joe; grandchildren, Jake (Laura); Zach (Amanda); Ethan (Caroline); Alden; Meredith and Katie; seven great grandchildren and his three sisters; Sherry, Bobbie and Judy, along with a host of family and friends. William was preceded in death by his great granddaughter, Hannah Lee.

A service to celebrate his life will be held Sunday, January 29, 2023 at 2 p.m. at Graham Funeral Home with Rev. Jake Dunlow officiating. He will be privately laid to rest at Chesapeake Memorial Gardens, Chesapeake. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to view the service and to leave a condolence to the family.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The National Parkinson’s Foundation