Robert Craver Phelps

Robert Craver Phelps passed away on Tuesday February 23, 2021 after an 18-month battle with cancer.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 am Saturday, June 12 at First United Methodist Church.  A private inurnment was held.

The family will receive friends following the service outside in the church portico.

Robert was born on February 8 ^th , 1935 in Davidson County to Thomas Dittimus and Mary Craver Phelps. Robert grew up in the Reeds community with his grandparents, Walter and Effie Davis Craver. He graduated from Reeds High School in 1954, then from Elon College in 1958. He married his high school sweetheart, Ramona Lee Leonard on June 21 ^st ,1959. The couple has three sons: Timothy Craver Phelps and wife Rhonda Hall; Todd Leonard Phelps and wife Jill Madras; and Michael Johnson Phelps and wife Elaine Williams, and four grandchildren, Mallory Craver, Kathryn Davis, Logan Reed and Chloe Bree Phelps. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Perry Leonard, wife Jeanne and niece Heather Martin. Mr. Phelps was preceded in death by his parents, sister Kay and half-brother Tom.

Robert had the heart of a servant which was reflected throughout his life and career. He enjoyed helping people find meaningful jobs through his 24 years at the Employment Security Commission, the last eight years being at Davidson County Community College. While there, he was an advisor to the Student Government Association. Robert was also a scout leader for Troop 200 for over forty years at First United Methodist Church. During that time, he received the Silver Beaver award, which is the highest award given to a Scout leader. He was also able to attend Philmont Scout Ranch with his sons. He was very proud of the fact that all three of his sons were Eagle scouts.

In his free time, Robert enjoyed wood carving. He carved everything from ducks to dogs to Santa Clauses to clutch crosses, many of which he gifted to friends and family. Robert and Ramona also volunteered in the North Carolina Train Host program for 19 years. They helped greet tourists and worked with school groups, making everyone feel welcome while they traveled.

He served his church in many capacities. He was the only remaining member of the church to have worked with its construction in 1954, being personally responsible for the safekeeping of the steeple cross. In 2020, the First United Methodist church honored Robert with the Laity Service Award.

Memorial gifts may be made to First United Methodist Church, 310 S. Main St, Lexington NC 27292 or Hospice of Davidson County, 200 Hospice Way, Lexington NC 27292.