EPSOM ---- Richard “Dick” E. Phelps, 90, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, transitioned from this life on Saturday, May 17, 2025.
Dick was born on May 16, 1935, in Rutland, VT, the son of the late Earle W. Phelps and Doris E. (Greenan) Phelps.
Dick reached his goal of 90 years and one day. His life’s journey allowed him to touch many lives. He was a ray of light in an often-uncertain world. Dick’s great love, compassion and insight made him an amazing teacher, mentor and friend throughout his life.
A veteran of the US Air Force, Dick earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Hampshire and a master’s degree in education for Antioch College, in MA. Dick was an educator for the Concord School District, in Concord, NH. He was a practicing Tibetan Buddhist for 26 years, and a 40-year friend of Bill W.
Dick is survived by his loving wife, Gail Laker-Phelps; son Mark R. Phelps, of Tilton, NH; daughters Brenda Major, of Ocala, FL, and Lisa J. Phelps and her husband Doug Montgomery, of Barnstead, NH; daughter-in-law Linda Phelps, of Keene, NH; brother Paul W. Phelps and his wife Mary Lou Phelps, of Franklin, NH; sister-in-law Valerie Laker, of Manchester, NH; sister-in-law Alice Phelps, of Allenstown, NH; grandchildren, Jessica Hakemier, Melissa Moore and her husband John, Benjamin Phelps and his wife Chelsea, Ian Phelps, and Aaron Phelps; ten great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and three nieces and three nephews. In addition to his parents, Dick is predeceased by his brother Michael Phelps; sister Joanne Borda; brother-in-law James Borda; nephews Scott Borda and Richard Borda; and great-grandson Christopher Eleva.
Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 4:00pm-6:00pm in the Carriage House at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 6:00pm, also at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations in Dick’s name be made to the (awesome) Granite VNA, 30 Pillsbury Street, Concord, NH 03301.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, Laconia, NH, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.