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Gerald “Gerry” Robert Phelps

August 31, 1963 - March 27, 2023

ALMOND – Gerald “Gerry” Robert Phelps, 59, passed away peacefully on Monday (March 27, 2023) at his home following a battle with cancer.

Gerry was born on August 31, 1963 in Warsaw to Robert John and Phyllis J. (Hunt) Phelps. He graduated from Letchworth Central School in 1981. Gerry found himself in various positions throughout life, he worked at Petroleum Helicopters as a turboshaft engine test cell technician in Lafayette, La., became a certified marine mechanic at the Marine Mechanic Institute in Daytona Beach, Fla., started his own logging business, and was a bartender for Kenwood Hotel in Silver Springs. In more recent years, he worked at American Rock Salt as a roof bolter and later as a conductor for Norfolk Southern and heavy equipment operator at recycling centers.

Gerry is survived by his mother, Phyllis Hunt of Plymouth, N.C.; a brother, Michael J. Phelps of Plymouth, N.C.; a sister, Lori Ann Phelps of Wiscoy; life partner, Barbara Bennett of Almond and several aunts, cousins and close friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Robert Phelps.

Gerry enjoyed machines in both his professional and private life. He liked his time working with his log skidder in the woods and driving his Harley Davison motorcycle around town. He had a soft spot for growing vegetables in his garden each year.

Gerry life’s passion however was playing lead guitar, an enthusiasm that led him to attend a cutting-edge rock guitarist school in Los Angeles, Calif. to hone his skills. He was best known by friends for his time in the band “Sick Bitch,” of which he was a core founder. Gerry was most fond of rock and played many cover songs during the height of the 70s and 80s music scene. He was also skilled in song writing and composed his own music. Gerry was ambitious, pushing himself to learn difficult music and was rewarded with a speed that was described as a “blur of movement.”

He was a musician at heart, even as his life and the music scene slowed he would occasionally perform at open mic nights. Gerry’s family cherished the times he would play for them at get togethers, his mom was especially proud of his talents.

The family will hold a celebration of life at a date to be determined. © 2023 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.

Celebration of Life to be determined by the family.

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6 Messages

  1. I loved Gerry. We were childhood friends that could not be separated. Our families were farmers. Me shared a bond. His mom is wonderful and she loved Gerry. We drifted apart as we got older-something I truly regret- but I’m / the world was a left a better place because of Gerry. A free sprit and independent. Skilled in some many things. He was always smiling and always got the pretty girls! We saw each other for the first time in years at our Class Reunion two summers ago. It was so great to finally catch up with my old friend.

    Thanks Gerry for being my friend. I’ll miss you but will never forget you

    Reply
  2. To G my one true love. You will be very much missed and remembered in our hearts forever by your extended family, including grand children who you watched grow up these past 18 years. Our time together was close and loving, being the “bitch on the back” was one of my favorite times with you! We also loved watching you jam…you were most happy then! I pray all your wishes came true…I love you.

    Reply
  3. Gerry, we will miss you. The world will miss you. Your life was cut too short. You were there for so many occasions in my life and I am grateful for you leaving me (and Ryan) with so many great memories. Your talent and heart were unmatched and I am so grateful I got to share them with you.

    It was so hard to write this because I still can’t believe you are gone. I will forever miss you. Thank you for being a part of my life, and loving my mom and us the way you did.

    I hope you are in a better place, living pain free with Sadie by your side, your guitar, a cold Coors Light (in a coozie), jamming out to Dio (or Motzart) and revving your Harley, while smoking a brisket.

    We love you.
    Chelsea, Ryan and Rowan

    Reply
  4. Rest easy now Gerry. My deepest condolences to your family of which I consider you to be.

    Reply
  5. Your message God Bless you Gerry, you were our good friend and we had lots of and we were lucky to know you! Will miss ya bunches! Rick and Cindy

    Reply
  6. I was very saddened to hear of Gerry’s passing.
    He will always be missed by his family and friends but I hope they all know that a free spirit like Gerry never truly fades away.
    He is just starting a new adventure and we can all smile knowing that there will be motorcycles, trucks, chainsaws, new friends and an electric guitar waiting for him when he gets there.

    Reply

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