David "Dave" Russell Phelps

David Russell Phelps

“Dave”

Dave passed away following a tragic auto accident on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.  Dave lived a full and vibrant life.  He touched the lives of many along the way.  He was a humble, gentle, soft-spoken man.  He loved the Lord and served him daily.  His Christian living was a testimony to others.   He loved his pastor, Rev. Rodney Quesenberry and his church family at Broadus Church. 

After graduating from high school, Dave moved from Barberton, OH to Draper, NC with his parents, Rev. Edgar and Mildred Phelps.  His dad accepted a pastorate position at the Friends Church.  This is where he met the love of his life, Virginia.  They were married for 58 years and were constant companions.  Also, during this same time period, Dave was drafted by the military and chose the United States Air Force.  He was stationed in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive in Saigon. 

Dave had a brilliant, analytical mind.  He pursued mechanical engineering at NC State University and UNC-Charlotte.  He was employed as an engineer and retired from Bendix / Allied Signal in Charlotte, NC.   After retirement, Dave continued to work as an engineer at BeacanMedeas in Rock Hill, SC.

Dave and Virginia loved spending time at their beach house in Hilton Head, SC enjoying the many beautiful sunrises and sunsets.  Dave enjoyed working in his beautiful yard, watching the wildlife, and fishing in the back pond. 

Dave is survived by his adoring wife of 58 years, Virginia.  He leaves behind his only daughter, Janet Ernst and her husband, Joe.  He also leaves behind Jax (granddog) and Ginger (horse).  They gave him much love and affection.  His family is devastated beyond words. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Edgar and Mildred Phelps, brother Earl Phelps, and sister Glada Phelps.  He is survived by sister, Jane Strandberg of Littleton, CO and sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Phelps of Barberton, OH.  He is also survived by nephews Dale Phelps, Gary Phelps, and Greg Strandberg; and niece Lynn Ford. 

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at Broadus Church located at 59 Green Street, Concord, NC.  Family will greet friends from 12:00 P.M. Noon until 1:00 P.M.prior to the service at 1:00 P.M.  Services will be officiated by Rev. Rodney Quesenberry.  Interment will be at Cabarrus Memorial Gardens located at 3892 NC Highway 73 East, Concord, NC  with military graveside rites conducted by the US Air Force and the Cabarrus County Veteran’s Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Broadus Church at 59 Green Street, Concord, NC 28027.  Whitley’s Funeral Home of Kannapolis, NC is serving the Phelps family.

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