William D. Phelps

William D. Phelps, 84, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 18, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at Baystate Noble Hospital. Born in Springfield to the late Kenneth and Rose (Whalen) Phelps, William was a lifelong resident of the city. He graduated from Westfield State University with a Bachelor’s degree in History and dedicated many years of service as a Security Guard at the former Municipal Hospital in Springfield until his retirement. He proudly served as an Army Reservist and shared valuable insights about his service in the Cuban Missile Crisis.

William was a man of many passions. He loved fishing and cherished his travels to Vermont with his beloved wife, Nancy. Family vacations to Cape Cod, Old Orchard Beach, and the White Mountains were among his favorite memories. He had a deep affection for all the animals he cared for over the years.

A lifelong learner, William had a profound love for history, which he studied at Westfield State University. He continued to take courses simply for the joy of learning. William always kept up to date with politics. In his youth, he pitched for Cathedral High School. William was also a devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox and Bruins, and he was thrilled when the Red Sox won the 2004 World Series.

William also had a great appreciation for movies from the Golden Age of Hollywood and enjoyed listening to oldies, big band music, swing, and Frank Sinatra. He had a sweet tooth and especially loved ice cream and sweets, with coffee ice cream being his favorite.

In addition to his parents, William was predeceased by his beloved wife, Nancy (O’Neil) Phelps, in 2023. He will be deeply missed by his son, Brian Phelps of Enfield, CT; his sister, Sandra Morris (the late Austin) of CA; and his four devoted grandchildren: Ashley Phelps, Alissa Himmelright (Robert), Benjamin Phelps (Felicia), and Allison Phelps (Jared). He also leaves cherished nieces: Kimberly, Krista, Donna, Patricia, and Christine.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 23rd from 4-6 PM, concluding with a Funeral Service at 6 PM, at Wilbraham Funeral Home, 2551 Boston Rd., Wilbraham. William’s Committal Service will be held on Monday, October 28th at 12:00 Noon in St. Michael’s Cemetery, 1601 State St., Springfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, 1355 Peachtree St., Suite 600, Atlanta, GA 30309.