Dr. Calvin E. Phelps, age 88, of Natchitoches, passed away on September 3, 2024, at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loving family, including his devoted wife and sons.
Born on December 19, 1935, in Magnolia, Mississippi, Dr. Phelps was one of twin brothers. He grew up in Jackson, MS, where he graduated from Central High School. From an early age, he felt called to the ministry, dedicating his life to faith and service. He earned a degree from Mississippi College before pursuing theological studies at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where he received a Bachelor of Divinity in 1964, a Master of Divinity in 1973, and a Doctor of Ministry in 1978.
In March 1957, Dr. Phelps married the love of his life, Mary Katherine “Kat” Burney, who was a faithful partner in his pastoral journey. Their ministry began at Chalmette Baptist Church and continued through Macedonia Baptist Church and Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Brookhaven, MS, before moving to Parkview Baptist Church in Metairie, LA. In 1971, the Phelps family moved to Winnfield, where he faithfully pastored First Baptist Church of Winnfield until his retirement in 2001. During his ministry there, Dr. Phelps became a rock of spiritual encouragement, providing steadfast guidance and comfort to his congregation through both joyful celebrations and times of tragedy. Even in retirement, Dr. Phelps continued to serve as an interim pastor for several churches throughout north and central Louisiana, concluding his ministry at Harmon Baptist Church from 2006 to 2024. A respected leader, Dr. Phelps was honored to serve as President of the Louisiana Baptist Convention from 1986 to 1987. His impact was felt far beyond the walls of the churches he served, as he ministered to entire communities with grace and humility.
Dr. Phelps was preceded in death by his parents, Talmadge C. Phelps and Faye Louise Simmons Phelps, his son Billy Phelps, and his niece Theresa Phelps.
He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Mary Katherine “Kat” Burney Phelps; his sons Rusty Phelps (Martha), Benji Phelps, and Jon Phelps (Yukie); grandchildren Peyton, Walker, Meredith, Kat, Hannah, Emma, and a cherished great-granddaughter, Sawyer Ann. He is also survived by his twin brother, Carroll Phelps (Julia Ann).
A Celebration of Life was held on Friday, September 6, at First Baptist Church of Winnfield, with interment at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Winnfield. The service was officiated by Dr. Doug Allen, Dr. Scott Sullivan, Dr. Benji Harlan, and Dr. Allen Jackson, with welcoming remarks by Tommy Bankston and special music by Rev. John Holland.
Pallbearers included Robin Cummings, Lamar Tarver, Steve Sanders, Dr. Mark Shelton, Delane Adams, and Lyn Bankston. Honorary pallbearers were Steve Shelton, Mike Smith, Dr. Jerry Williams, and Rev. Russell Jones.
Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Winnfield, the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, or a charity of your choice. Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.southernfuneralhome.com.