Joey Phelps

She married Dink Phelps on July 3, 1964, at Lee Chapel Church in rural West Frankfort, IL, and he survives her.

A lifelong resident of Johnston City, IL, Joey attended school in the community. Over her 30 years of service for Johnston City Community Unit School District #1, she worked in the kitchen and as a noon hour aide, primarily at Jefferson and Washington Schools.

As a devoted pastor's wife, Joey was a steadfast support to Dink during his ministry. Most recently they were attending Harmony Free Will Baptist Church. Here, she shared her musical talents by playing the piano, which she deeply loved.

Her unwavering faith in the Lord was at the core of Joey's identity. She passionately served Him however she could. For many years, she shared the gospel through music with her family, The Kee Family. They traveled all over southern Illinois and Kentucky, touching many lives. Joey was an avid supporter of gospel music and loved attending concerts and spirit-filled church services.

Above her many accomplishments, Joey was a loving and nurturing presence to her family. She adored her grandchildren and cherished the time she spent with them. Throughout her life, she was known for always making sure her family was well cared for and never letting anyone leave her home hungry. Her selfless dedication to her Lord and family will remain a lasting memory to all those who knew her.

Joey will be remembered as a loving, faith-filled, and selfless woman whose impact will live on through her family and the many lives she touched.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 59 years, Pastor Dink Phelps; their daughter, Tena Avery, and her husband, Blaine; their son, Torey "Rooster" Phelps, and his wife, Kristi Almaroad Phelps; her proud mother, Evelyn Kee; her grandchildren, Dustin Leming, Ashlynn Phelps, Lily Phelps, Erin Almaroad Phelps, Ellie Phelps, and Tatum Phelps; her sisters, Patsy Marrs and Paula Fischer; as well as several nieces, nephews, other extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, "Tat" Kee; granddaughter, Alexis Joy Phelps; and two brothers-in-law, LeRoy "Lee" Fischer and Larry Marrs.

Arrangements were entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL.

The visitation was held at Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home on Sunday, June 11, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.

During the time of visitation, a "Reflection of Life" Video Tribute featuring special people, places and events in Joey's life was presented to family and friends.

Following the time of visitation, the funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Jerry Schell and Pastor Bill Schell presiding.

Special recorded musical selections presented during the service were "Celebrate Me Home" by Dustin Leming and "Love the People God Gives You" by The Bowling Family. Special live vocal musical selections presented during the service were "I'll See You Again," sung by Patsy Marrs and Ryan Marrs, accompanied by Patsy Marrs on the piano and "I Firmly Promise You" by Pastor Jerry Schell, who accompanied himself on the piano.

Interment followed in Lakeview Cemetery in Johnston City.

The pallbearers were Dustin Leming, Torey "Rooster" Phelps, Blaine Avery, Ryan Marrs, Shawn Marrs and Matt Cantrell.