Dr. Calvin E. Phelps, age 88, of Natchitoches, Louisiana, passed away on September 3rd, 2024, at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, LA, 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, Louisiana, 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 will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 6th, at First Baptist Church of Winnfield, with interment to follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Winnfield. The service will be officiated by Dr. Jerry Pipes, Dr. Doug Allen, Dr. Scott Sullivan, Dr. Benji Harlan, and Dr. Allen Jackson, with special music by Rev. John Holland.

Friends are invited to visit with the family on Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Winnfield, and again on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Winnfield, the Louisiana Baptist Children's Home, or a charity of your choice.

Pallbearers will include Robin Cummings, Lamar Tarver, Steve Sanders, Dr. Mark Shelton, Delane Adams, and Lynn Bankston. Honorary pallbearers are Steve Shelton, Mike Smith, Dr. Jerry Williams, and Rev. Russell Jones.

Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared with the family at www.southernfuneralhome.com.