J.R. Phelps, 46, of Festus died May 18, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mr. Phelps loved to go to the dirt track races, ride motorcycles and work on cars. Born Oct. 5, 1979, in St. Louis, he was the son of Judy Medley (David) Friedmeyer of Farmington and Robert Coplin of Festus.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by two sons Christopher (Raven Shepperd) Richardson of Waco, Texas, and Austin (Ashley) Phelps of Farmington; a daughter: Skylar Phelps of Festus; four siblings: Kevin Coplin of Festus, Dylan Friedmeyer of Farmington, Zack Carter of Festus and Emma Carter of Festus; four grandchildren: Ava Phelps, Hutson Phelps, Leland Richardson and Levi Richardson; his girlfriend: Denise Harper of Festus; two friends: Sheri and Rhonda; and two nephews: Jake and Dallas.
He was preceded in death by a brother: Levi Carter; and his grandmother: Wilma “Gram” Medley.
Visitation is scheduled from 11 a.m. until services at 1 p.m. Friday, May 22, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus, officiated by Pastor Cindy Fallert. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.