Ernest Phelan

Ernest Jasper Phelan, 81, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri passed away Dec. 15, 2023, at his home in Poplar Bluff.

Ernest was born April 16, 1942, to Pleasant and Lucille (Cummins) Phelan in Amarillo, Texas. He married Donna (Parish) Phelan Feb. 16, 2003.

Ernest was in the Navy (1962-1967) during the Vietnam War. He retired from Union Pacific Railroad as a Locomotive Engineer after 38 years of service. He was a member and deacon of Agee Fellowship Church, 50-year Master Mason with the Poplar Bluff local Chapter 209, a member of Poplar Bluff York Rite, Scottish Rite, and Priory #17 Knights of the York Cross of Honour. He loved being outside, gardening and mowing the yard, spending time with his family, working crossword puzzles, and reading.

Ernest is survived by his wife, Donna; two daughters, Christina (Gene) Hill, and Rhonda Phelan; two sons, Jason (Lisa) Robinson and Jeffery Robinson; one stepdaughter, Melissa; nine grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law: Patsy Phelan; and several nieces and nephews.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents; the mother of his daughters, Peggy Phelan; wife, Alice and her daughter Pandra; brothers, Grant and Bill; one sister, Janet Johnson; the community lake swan, Pretty Girl; and his dog, Lucky.

Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 20 , 2023, with funeral services immediately following at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services in Poplar Bluff. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery with full Military Honors and Pastor Jim Schremp officiating.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Agee Fellowship Church, St. Jude’s Children Hospital, or any charity of your choice.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Ernest Jasper Phelan.

Online condolences can be at www.cwrfcs.com.