Beech Tree News Network

Kermit Lee Phelps, 77, loving husband, father, and papaw passed away on May 1, 2024 in Louisville, KY, surrounded by close family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and a family full of diehard University of Louisville fans.

Born on May 1, 1947, Kermit grew up in Morgantown, KY. He is the son of Edna and Owen Phelps and had 8 siblings: Forrest Phelps, Carlos Phelps, Alma Deweese, Kenneth Phelps, Betty Greer, Louise Amos, Lucille Curtis, and Shirley Broyles. He was a graduate of Butler County High School and upon graduation was drafted in the US Army

Kermit honorably served for 2 years and ended his service as a specialist. He was a proud member of the Local 64 Carpenters Union where he learned to hone his craft and spent his career passing his knowledge to local carpenters, on the job as well as in the classroom. His impact can be seen throughout the state of Kentucky with a lifetime spent in construction.

Kermit enjoyed time in the yard, fixing cars, and working on the house. He could build or fix anything and always had several projects going, he even occasionally finished a few.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 52 years, Anna Christine “Chris” Phelps; two sons, Russell (Amber) Phelps and Jeremy (Melodye) Phelps; six grandchildren, Ana, Mason, Abram, Grant, Everett and Olsen Phelps. He is also survived by 3 sisters: Shirley Broyles, Betty Greer, and Lucille (Jay) Curtis.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Forrest, Carlos, and Kenneth, and sisters, Alma and Louise

He was a part of the family at Okolona Church of Christ, where he worshiped for 50 years and dutifully served as a youth mentor, a deacon, and an elder.

Kermit will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

His funeral is 11am Friday, May 10, 2024 at Okolona Church of Christ with burial in Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central.  Visitation is 4-8pm Thursday, May 9, 2024 at Fern Creek Funeral Home.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Okolona Church of Christ earmarked for the Center for Women and Families.