William Howard Phelps, 83, of Edwards

EDWARDS, New York (WWNY) - William Howard Phelps, age 83, passed away peacefully Friday evening, November 17, 2023 at the home of his son James E. Phelps and Daughter-in-law Jane in Edwards, NY surrounded by his devoted wife Joyce (Sloan) and loving family.

In keeping with William’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

William was born on August 27, 1940 in Massena, NY to the late Marshall and Mayfred (Hewitt) Phelps.

William is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joyce Sloan, with whom he surprised with a renewal of their wedding vows on September 9, 2023, surrounded by family and friends.

Bill is also survived by two children, James Phelps and his wife Jane of Edwards, NY and Jeanine “Buffy” Youngs and her husband David of Gouverneur, NY; Eight grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren and his sister, Leona “Loni” Watters of South Carolina.

A graduate of Gouverneur Central School, Bill began his working career with his father Marshall running Phelps’ Service Station and Sport Shop in Fowler, NY. He retired from Newton Falls Paper Mill and was also a substitute bus driver for Edwards and Gouverneur Central School. He was also a volunteer driver for the Department of Social Services.

Bill was a beacon of love and his devotion exemplified selflessness in his role as a grandfather. He possessed a heartwarming generosity, always willing to give the shirt off his back and empty his pockets for the well-being of his family. Bill’s love extended to the great outdoors, where he found solace in the backwoods or contentment on the porch, observing life passing by.

His knowledge of every back road was a testament of his adventurous spirit, especially when he took the grandkids berry picking or engaged the children in the simple joy of collecting bottles by the roadside. Amidst the walls of their trailer, Bill fostered a lively atmosphere, sparking rubber band fights and sharing laughter over card games. The grandkids could always count on him for a delightful treat- fudge pops were a staple, a sweet expression of his affection.

Bill’s legacy lies not just in the memories of outdoor escapades or playful moments but in the profound sense of love and togetherness that he wove into the fabric of his family’s life.

Bill’s love of his Amish friends was unsurmountable. He loved his daily visits with them and his sweet tooth showed it.

Bill is predeceased by his brother, Ronald Phelps and a granddaughter Theresa Phelps. Donations may be made in Bill’s memory to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.