Thomas Neal Phelps, 81, of Niles, Illinois, formerly of Chicago and Nebo, Kentucky, passed away on July 7, 2026.

Beloved husband of the late Kay Phelps. Devoted father of Laura (Mike) Lundgren and Jim (Katie) Phelps. Loving grandfather of Caitlin Kelly, Anna Kelly, and Thora Phelps. Tom's life centered on his family, and he cared deeply for all his nieces, nephews, and loved ones.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Audra and Clarence Phelps; his brother, Gary Phelps; his sister-in-law, Karen (Mike) Hamby; his brother-in-law, Jim Fisher, devoted husband of Tom's sister Glenda; and Roger Bratcher, beloved husband of Tom's sister Rita.  He is further survived by his brother-in-law Gary (Joe) Gruenewald.

Tom prided himself on being a hard worker. He valued the decades he spent at Geo T. Schmidt in Niles, Illinois, and the many friendships he made working there. A man of many hobbies, he loved spending time in nature, fly fishing, tying flies, and especially flying RC airplanes, which brought him great joy and new friends later in life.

A private family burial will be held at St. Adalbert Cemetery in Niles, Illinois. A celebration of Tom's life will be announced to friends & family at a later date.