William Gene Phelps Sr.

William Gene Phelps Sr. (affectionately known as Bill or Billy), age 96, of Danville, Illinois, the son of Ballard H. and Mary Lucille Kirby-Phelps, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025. He honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War and was deeply proud of his military service.

On March 14, 1954, Billy married Virginia Ann Phillips in Danville, Illinois. They shared 66 years of marriage and together raised five children: Regina Andrews (Mark), William “Bill” Phelps Jr. (deceased), Marian Foster, Janet Herman (Walter) (deceased), and Valerie Phelps (deceased).

Billy dedicated more than 30 years of service as a Nurse Assistant at the Veterans Administration Hospital. In addition, he worked as an agent with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, where he earned top honors for outstanding life insurance sales. He later served as a Regional Manager with Primerica. Following his retirement from the VA Hospital, Billy became a successful real estate investor and landlord, operating Phelps Enterprises Inc. for more than 40 years.

Billy enjoyed a full and active life. His favorite pastimes included traveling, playing tennis, ping pong, shooting pool, card games—especially Bid Whist—gardening, and home renovation projects. He remained physically active through bicycling, jogging, and walking his beloved dogs throughout Lincoln Park.

A self-taught pianist, Billy had a deep love for music, particularly Clair de Lune and Danny Boy. His appreciation for music extended to his family, as he ensured that all five of his children learned to play an instrument.

Billy was a devoted man of faith. He gave his life to Christ and was a faithful member of Allen Chapel AME Church for more than 70 years. He sang in the Men’s Choir and served diligently on the Finance Committee.

He was also actively involved in family and community traditions, helping to organize the Phelps–Hayden Reunions, the North End Reunion, and the Phelps BBQ gatherings at Kennekuk Cove.

Mr. Phelps is survived by his daughters Regina Andrews (Mark) of Kansas City, Kansas; Marian Foster of Danville, Illinois; and Janet Herman of Atlanta, Georgia; ten grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. His faithful pet, Chappie, dearly misses him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Virginia, two children, his parents, three sisters, and one brother.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Carle and OSF Hospitals and their staff for the compassionate care provided to Billy. Special thanks are also offered to his caregivers Adrienne Littlepaige, Jacob Brooks, and Henrietta Henson, with special recognition given to his granddaughter Dasha Smith and niece Charmaine Owens for their devoted care and support.

A Celebration of Life will commence at 11:00 a.m. Monday January 5, 2026 at Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, 503 N. Jackson St. Danville. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Eulogist: Pastor Tyson Parks. Interment will be at Danville National Cemetery.

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