Rodney “Unk” Robert Phelps, age 79 of Gulfport, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Brax Phelps and Myrtle Phelps and his siblings, Vesta Cliburn, Freddie Enroth, Dorothy Bigot, Gaynell Ealy, Elaine Phelps and Carl Phelps.

Rodney is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Carol McDonald Phelps; his children, Renee (Brian) Hight and Gwen (Randy Deshamp) Phelps; his grandsons, Gregory (Rebecca) Hight, Mason Hight, Kyle Mills and Landen Wallace; his great grandsons, Sean Hight, Dresden Rulite and Vincent Hight and his brother, Terry R. Phelps, Sr.

Born and raised in Gulfport, Rodney married his high school sweetheart, Carol, in 1967, beginning a loving marriage that spanned decades. He proudly served in the Army National Guard before entering active duty in 1968, when he was deployed to Vietnam. Rodney honorably served his country for nine years before receiving his discharge.

Following his military service, Rodney began a career at the Port of Gulfport with Chiquita, where he worked faithfully for 35 years until his retirement.

Rodney was a devoted Christian whose steadfast faith guided every aspect of his life. He was a man of wisdom and integrity who always spoke the truth with honesty and conviction. Known for his generous heart, Rodney would help anyone in need and was truly the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back. If something was broken, he could fix it, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand.

In retirement, Rodney enjoyed bass fishing, watching baseball, and keeping up with current events on Fox News. He found great joy in the outdoors, whether tending to his meticulously maintained yard, helping care for his neighbors' lawns, or simply watching the deer. His attention to detail in his community earned him the affectionate nickname, "The Mayor of Lyman."

Above all, Rodney was devoted to his family. He was immensely proud of them and cherished every opportunity to spend time together, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Rodney's unwavering faith, generous spirit, and genuine kindness touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of service, love, and faith will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, with visitation beginning at 9:00 am. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Gulfport, and a reception will be held after the burial at Simply Church, 18233 Hwy 53, Gulfport, MS, 39503.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .