Mary Ellen Phelps

Mary Ellen Phelps, aged 67, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on May 12, 2025. Born on December 12, 1957, in Detroit, Michigan, she was the daughter of John Wayne Phelps and Katherine Mary Hayes Phelps Hill.

Mary graduated from South Lyon High School in Michigan and furthered her education by obtaining an associate degree from North Arkansas Community College, after she moved to Mountain Home from Detroit, Michigan, in 1979. She was a cashier at Walmart. She became an active and beloved member of the Hilltop Church. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she proudly supported Kingdom Life Recovery, formerly known as Care Center Ministries. Mary found joy in crafting and reading, but her deepest love was reserved for her church community.

One of the most cherished things about Mary was her love of giving hugs. She met everyone she loved with a warm, long embrace—her hugs were heartfelt and healing, a true expression of her deep care and affection. It was one of the many ways she shared her love so freely with those around her. Mary is survived by a loving community of friends and her church family, who will remember her warmth and kindness.

A visitation will take place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the service at Hilltop Church. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Ty Cotter. Graveside services will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Detroit, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kingdom Recovery. Arrangements are entrusted to Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services in Mountain Home, Arkansas. To leave condolences and share memories, please visit the online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.