Richard Cromwell Phelps, III (Rick), born Dec. 31, 1942, died on Nov. 22, 2024, in Manchester.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard C. Phelps, II and Gladys (Galloway) Phelps. He is survived by four brothers, Jim McCord Phelps, Roy William Phelps, Donald Kercheval Phelps and Thomas F. Phelps; two daughters, Donna (Jeffry) Hashe and Karen (David) Mumpower; and four grandchildren.

Rick was an avid environmentalist. His career as a chemist for Eastman Chemical in Kingsport involved keeping the rivers of East Tennessee clean. He was a board member of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, Inc., helping to raise money to buy 100,000 acres around Roan Mountain to prevent development and preserve the pristine view from the Roan Bald. When he was younger, he was an avid whitewater canoeist and member of the Tennessee Scenic River Association. An Eagle Scout, he remained active in Scouting throughout his life.  He served on the board for the Hands On Science Center in Tullahoma.  He has also been an active member of Appalachian Voices, Inc.

Memorials can be sent to Appalachian Voices, Inc., 812 E. High Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22902 and the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, Inc. 372 Merriman Ave., Asheville, N.C., 28801.  No formal services will be held.

Moore-Cortner Funeral Home 300 1st Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)967-2222, www.moorecortner.com.

Moore-Cortner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Tullahoma News – Dec. 11, 2024