Obituaries

Ann Elizabeth Phelps

12/18/1941 - 07/08/2017

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Obituary For Ann Elizabeth Phelps

Ann Elizabeth (Delorey) Phelps, passed away surrounded by the people she loved most on July 8, 2017. Ann was the daughter of the late John Emery and Marion (Noren) Delorey, and was born in Brockton on December 18, 1941.

She moved to Rockland and attended Rockland High School where she would meet the love of her life, Richard Phelps. After high school, she attended the New England Baptist Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1962, and worked at South Shore Hospital. In 1986 she began her career at Rockland High School as head nurse of the Rockland Public School system, where she would impact thousands of lives before her retirement in 2003.

Ann loved Rockland and helping others, entrenching herself in the community through public service. She was a Eucharistic Minister at Holy Family Church, past President of the Rockland Visiting Nurse Association, and long -time member of the Rockland Citizen Scholarship Foundation. She devoted herself in many capacities to the Rockland schools as an athletic booster, CPR Instructor, and proponent/implementer of both the Senior Issues Program, and the annual Academic Awards Ceremony. Ann was the founder of Rockland Holiday Magic in 2003, and through that program, committed to assisting hundreds of families during the holidays. Ann truly enjoyed being involved, busy and serving others.

More than anything, she loved her husband Richard, son of the late Edward and Katherine (Swett) Phelps. Married in 1963, together they raised three children: Kimberly Phelps Nelson and her husband Erik of Marshfield, Jeffrey Phelps and his wife Gayle of Hanson, and Edward (Rick) Phelps and his wife Susan of Hanson. She was Mimi to eight grandchildren: Mya, Teddie, Ethan, Lauren, Emily, Katherine, Olivia and Matthew. She was sister to Patricia Principe and sister in law to Judith Phelps, and William Principe, all of Rockland. Ann was also aunt to Melissa (Nelson) Reale of Hingham and Michael Nelson of Alexandria, Virginia.

Ann and Richard loved their life together and lived it to the fullest. They travelled the world living their dream, enjoyed many family vacations, and hosted friends and family at their home away from home in Plymouth. Ann was happiest being "Mimi" and spoiled her grandchildren shamelessly. She never missed a concert, game or recital, and her favorite times were spent together with family. In keeping with her giving and generous spirit, Ann has made an anatomical gift to the Tufts School of Medicine. Through this gift, she will continue to help others.

The family welcomes loved ones and friends to celebrate Ann's life on Friday July 14, 2017 at the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home, 135 Union St. Rockland from 5:00-8:00 PM. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday July 15, 2017 at 9:00 AM in Holy Family Church, 403 Union St. Rockland, Donations in Ann's memory may be made to Rockland Holiday Magic P.O. Box 50, The Rockland Education Foundation P.O. Box 764,or the John Delorey Scholarship Fund. P.O. Box 551 all in Rockland, MA 02370.

Services

14 Jul

Visitation

17:00 PM - 20:00 PM

Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home 135 Union Street Rockland, MA 02370 Get Directions »
15 Jul

Funeral Mass

09:00 AM

Holy Family Church 403 Union St. Rockland, MA 02370 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

Condolences

  • 05/26/2021

    R.I.p.ann we will miss you

  • 05/26/2021

    Dick, Kim, Jeff , Rick and families - The journey through grief is one of the most demanding paths a person ever travels, especially when grieving such a beautiful soul as Ann. She has always been a role model to so many in our community. I have admired her since I was a young girl and the respect I have for her as a spouse, mother, grandmother, sister and friend can't be measured. There is no doubt in my mind that she continues to shine her light beyond our earthly imagination. Ann was a fighter, a giver, Ann was love and she will not be forgotten.

  • 05/26/2021

    Ann was a model for being a generous and loving person and a concerned citizen. She certainly made this world a better place.

  • 05/26/2021

    Our condolences go out to the Phelps family.

  • 05/26/2021

    My sympathy goes to Dick and family. So very sorry. Anne Betts Travi

  • 05/26/2021

    Dick, So sorry for your loss. She was such a kind and caring lady.

  • 05/26/2021

    I was very sorry to learn that Ann (always "Mrs. Phelps" to me) passed away. As I told Jeff in a note to him, I have very fond memories of her from our childhood days when Jeff and I played hockey together. The Phelps family is a great family that has always made Rockland proud. To Dick ("Mr. Phelps"), Jeff, Kim and Rick, I send you all my thoughts and prayers and hope that your great memories of Ann will help you through this difficult time. Peace to all of you.

  • 05/26/2021

    No words can express the loss to all who knew Ann. As a friend and classmate, she was the Energizer Bunny for the RHS Class of '59. My sincere condolences to you, her family. She will live on in your hearts forever. Wishing you peace,

  • 05/26/2021

    Dear Jeff - We are so sorry to hear about your mother's passing. Please know that all of your friends at the Rockland Chamber of Commerce and South Shore Chamber of Commerce are thinking of you and your family during these truly sad times.

  • 05/26/2021

    So sorry to read of Anns passing. The class of '59 has lost a great friend.she was so giving. Our reunions at your Plymouth home are great memories we will keep close to our hearts! Sincerely, Laura Richardson Paine.

  • 05/26/2021

    Our thoughts and hearts are with the entire Phelps family. Ann was a great neighbor and friend for over 20 years.She was cheerful and compassionate
    For everyone she came into contact. She will be missed by a town who totally loved her.You will be missed Ann. Xoxo

  • 05/26/2021

    TO DICK,KIM,JEFF,AND RICK

    IN 1996 I HAD THE HONOR TO INDUCT ANN DELOREY PHELPS INTO THE ROCKLAND HIGH
    SCHOOL HALL OF FAME. AT TAT TIME I WAS
    ABLE TO INFORM THE ACADEMIC AUDIENCE OF
    ALL THE OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS ANN
    MADE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE ROCKLAND
    HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY AND THE ENTIRE
    COMMUNITY OF ROCKLAND. I RECALL THAT
    MY CLOSING WAS THAT "THE WORLD NEEDS
    MORE ANN PHELPS"! DICK AND FAMILY.
    SHE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED! NORM & ROBERTA PULASKI

  • 05/26/2021

    So sorry for your loss Dick, Jeff and Kim. Ann was a wonderful lady that did so much for Rockland -our prayers are with you all -may she RIP

  • 05/26/2021

    TO DICK,KIM,JEFF,AND RICK

    IN 1996 I HAD THE HONOR TO INDUCT ANN DELOREY PHELPS INTO THE ROCKLAND HIGH
    SCHOOL HALL OF FAME. AT THAT TIME I WAS
    ABLE TO INFORM THE ACADEMIC AUDIENCE OF
    ALL ANN'S OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS FOR
    THE BENEFIT OF THE ROCKLAND HIGH SCHOOL
    COMMUNITY, AND THE ENTIRE ROCKLAND COMMUNITY. I RECALL THAT MY CLOSING WAS THAT "THE WORLD NEEDS MORE ANN PHELPS"!
    DICK AND FAMILY, SHE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED! NORM & ROBERTA PULASKI

  • 05/26/2021

    Rest easy Mrs. Phelps. To all the family and friends, my sincerest condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

  • 05/26/2021

    Without a question you were the BEST Ann. Anyone who knew you loved you how could they not. You always brought a smile to my face and loved the stories you shared about your Grandchildren how much you loved them. I doubt anyone could fill your shoes and know you will never be forgotten.

  • 05/26/2021

    When we became Ann & Dick's neighbors at the cove on Herring Pond, we noticed that their yard and dock were full of happy grandchildren. One day, Ann came over to "apologize" for her exuberant grandchildren. We laughed and said it was music to our ears, and warned her that our grandchildren were just as happy. One day, two of her little granddaughters, seeing us out in our paddle boat, paddled over to us and asked if we'd like some paninis and grapes and if we were thirsty, because they also had drinks. Their kindness to near strangers is something that comes from family. Spending so much time with their Mimi, their kindness was no surprise. Ann will be missed. Our cove will never be the same without her.

  • 05/26/2021

    My years working in Rockland were sweetened by so many of the very special people who live there. Ann Phelps is at the top of my list. She was always there to counsel me through difficult times and take my blood pressure readings as well. To Dick and 'The Kids' : You are fortunate to have such a wonderful wife and mother. God's blessings to you all.

  • 05/26/2021

    Richard Kids & Grand Kids you were her Life

  • 05/26/2021

    Our thoughts and prayers are with Dick and the family. A great lady will be missed by all. Love, Ken & Barbara Pike.

  • 05/26/2021

    As a recipient of Holiday Magic my grandchildren were able to have a wonderful Christmas. This would not have been possible without Ann's passion for coming to the aid of the needy. I just wanted to say how much I appreciated her and how grateful I am to have come to known her. She was a blessing to many people. My sincerest sympathies to her loved ones and friends. God be with you.

  • 05/26/2021

    My sincere condolences to you and your family for your loss. May prayers strengthen you and comfort you and your family..

  • 05/26/2021

    My thoughts and prayers go out to Dick, Kim, Jeff, and Rick. I never met a kinder, more generous person than Ann Phelps and can't thank her enough for welcoming me into her home and family when I moved to Rockland in the eighth grade. She always had a kind words and a smile for anyone who needed it.

  • 05/26/2021

    Dick and the entire Phelps family, my deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved Ann. Marilyn Werkheiser

  • 05/26/2021

    Very sorry for your loss Dick and family. Rest in peace Mrs Phelps. You'll be sorely missed.

  • 05/26/2021

    Dick, Jeff & Kim,

    I'm so sorry to hear about Ann's passing. My thoughts & prayers go out to you and your families.

  • 05/26/2021

    Rest in Peace Mrs. Phelps. My deepest sympathy to the whole Phelps family.

  • 05/26/2021

    Ann must have touched thousands of people with her warmth, love, laughter, and generosity! I think if each of us told a favorite story about her, we'd fill an encyclopedia. I am so pleased that I could call her neighbor and friend. She'll be sorely missed! Our love and prayers to all of you from the Lelyveld and Wittenberg families.

  • 05/26/2021

    I am so sad to hear about Ann. She was that ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. I never knew anyone as happy and joyful as her. She was an inspiration...a woman who epitomized the role of public servant. Her enthusiasm was contagious. She was God's gift to us all. Rockland was so blessed to have her as its ambassador. She will definitely be missed. To Richard, Kim, Jeff and Rick...you have my deepest sympathies and you are in my thoughts and prayers. I am not alone in saying, "Ann was the best".

  • 05/26/2021

    My deepest sympathy at the loss of such a wonderful women. I went to school with Rick and at the time Ann was our school nurse and I can remember her always having such a bright wonderful smile and a infectious laugh. I have a special place for nurses in my heart due to my mother who passed recently was a nurse in fact they attended the same nursing school New England Baptist School of Nursing. Rest in Peace Mrs. Phelps.

  • 05/26/2021

    To Dick and Family, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Ann was a wonderful mentor to me during our Visiting Nurse Years. Our Prayers are with You, Marion and Ralph Rose

  • 05/26/2021

    God .be with you always'

  • 05/26/2021

    My deepest sympathy on your loss of Ann. She was an inspiration to all of the lives that she touched. She worked tirelessly for her family, town, and friends. God must have needed another angel in Heaven to help him organize and direct meaningful projects. May your many wonderful memories help sustain you during this difficult time.

  • 05/26/2021

    I had the great pleasure of working with Ann during Christmas time on the Rockland Holiday Magic Charity for the past few years. She was a tireless and loving person. My sincerest sympathies to Ann's family and loved ones. She will be truly missed.

  • 05/26/2021

    Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
    The Woodward's Max, Lan, Bo, and Colby

  • 05/26/2021

    Dear Dick,
    I was saddened to hear of Ann's passing. She was beautiful, caring and generous women and I know that the two of you were inseparable. While it will take many months for the sadness to fade, her memory and the support of your loving children and grandchildren will give you strength during difficult times. Our sincerest condolences to you and your family. We will keep you and Ann in our thoughts and prayers.

  • 05/26/2021

    My deepest sympathy to the entire Phelps family. Ann was a wonderful woman, always smiling, always friendly. You will be sorely missed Ann. Rest in the arms of the Lord.

  • 05/26/2021

    Treasure the power of Ann's love and humanity spread to everyone in her path as she walked this earth as an angel. Sincere sympathy and love to all of Ann's cherished family.

  • 05/26/2021

    Ann was an angel and friend to everyone. She was a joy with which to work and a pleasure to know. She will be deeply missed. My deepest condolences to her family

  • 05/26/2021

    Dear Dick and Family, My heart goes out to all of you at this difficult time. May your wonderful memories of Ann's love of children and community give you strength. We will truly never forget all she gave us.

  • 05/26/2021

    Ann was he most beautiful person in the world always comforting others-caring about others-she ALWAYS had time for anyone with a issue-in my case she was my ROCK-always supporting and encouraging me and caring about my health and welfare-Ann was a Mother to ALL of us-I love you Ann and my prayers and thoughts for the Phelps and Nelson families.

  • 05/26/2021

    My sincere deepest sympathy... Ann was always there to listen to you whenever you needed a sounding board. I so loved my time with her. I'll will remember her in my thoughts and my prayers. Love, Joseph R Dion

  • 05/26/2021

    Dear Kim and Family, Your mother was an amazing woman, and I feel blessed to have met her and spent time with her. She was caring and loving, and clearly lived life with an amazing and rare authenticity. You are in my prayers, and I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much she will be missed. Erin O'Connor Jones

  • 05/26/2021

    My condolences to the entire Phelps family. She was so kind, generous and such a sincerely good person. It came from her core. I'll always remember her spirit and sense of humor. We had some good laughs during CPR training, because I was hopeless. She will be missed by all who knew her.

  • 05/26/2021

    God Speed Ann,
    I grew up in Rockland, went to Rockland Public Schools... I'm Sure that if I did'nt see Nurse Ann, I'm sure My Siblings, or My Oldest Son did... Heartfelt Condolences to the Family... May she Fly High with the Angels.

  • 05/26/2021

    To Dick and Family, Please accept our condolences on this very sad loss. Describing Ann as a warm, intelligent and gracious person does not nearly do her justice. Her impact on those of us who were lucky enough to know her, as well as on the community at large, was enormous. Her support of and advocacy for the children of Rockland will forever be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Maureen and Chuck Schnider and Family

  • 05/26/2021

    Mrs. phelps was my school nurse all of my high school. She had the biggest heart. I was at her office every day. She always helped me rather it was her words of wisdom or just her listening to me and being there to talk. She was a amazing women in so many ways and I will miss her dearly.

  • 05/26/2021

    My sincere condolences to the Phelps's family. We had the joy of seeing your parents in Bermuda years ago when the Mellor girls were on vacation with my Mom--it was such a great treat to see them enjoying themselves on vacation. Pam (Mellor) Guyer & the Mellor family.

  • 05/26/2021

    Our condolences go out to the Phelps Family !

    From Thd Harriman's

  • 05/26/2021

    My deepest sympathies to Mrs Phelps family! May she RIP! She was an awesome, kind, thoughtful and loving lady! Im so sad to hear of her passing!

  • 05/26/2021

    To the entire Phelps Family,
    What an amazing soul Ann was.
    I wish you all the comfort of knowing she lived life to the fullest, and helped so many.

  • 05/26/2021

    Our deepest condolences to the Phelps Family. Ann was a wonderful person. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

  • 05/26/2021

    I'm shocked and so saddened by your loss. Ann was a very special person and I so enjoyed working with her over the years. When someone you love becomes a memory, treasure all those memories and may it bring you peace at heart. Heaven just gained an angel.

  • 05/26/2021

    My deepest condolences to the Phelps Family. Fond memories of Anne's warm and generous spirit. She was a caring camp fire leader and CCD teacher. She was a friendly neighbor. Most of all, I remember her being a loving wife and an amazing and truly special mother to Kim, Jeffrey and Ricky. I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my mom in March this year as well.

  • 05/26/2021

    A wonderful woman,so sorry to learn of her death. My condolences to all her family

  • 05/26/2021

    With our deepest love and admiration to a truly wonderful person. Pat and I will miss you dearly, no finer person has walked God's green earth than our beloved Ann. May you rest in peace and may the lord shine his perpetual light upon you.

  • 05/26/2021

    I am so sorry to hear this news my parents also send their condolences and were shocked and saddened. As we all had very fond memories, we are all so sorry and are sending our thoughts and prayers

  • 05/26/2021

    Truly amazing and lovely lady. She was selfless, caring and always sweet whenever you crossed her path. Such a loss for your family and for the town of Rockland. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to you all.

  • 05/26/2021

    " Our deepest thoughts and prayers to the family of a true "angel " who was a gift to her family and to all she touched with her smile and positive attitude even in the most difficult moments. She was a joy to have known and worked with. Heavens gain is our loss. God bless!

  • 05/26/2021

    Richie and the entire family, I am so sorry to learn of Ann's passing. She was a classmate and friend. Such a full, rich and rewarding life she led. A truly loving and giving lady. She leaves a huge void in the world. My sincere condolences to all.

  • 05/26/2021

    Our deepest condolences to the entire Phelps Family. Ann's giving and loving nature will forever be in our hearts. Ann brighten so many years in our lives.

  • 05/26/2021

    So,so sorry for your loss. Ann always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

  • 05/26/2021

    Sorry to hear the news. Your Mom was a wonderful lady that always had a kind word. Keeping the Phelps and Nelson's in our prayers.

  • 05/26/2021

    So honored to have known Ann. I will miss her wit and wisdom. One of the most kind and generous people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. We spoke often of her children, grandchildren and her dog. Heaven certainly gained and Angel, much too soon. Keeping you all in my prayers.

  • 05/26/2021

    It would be impossible to count the children and adults that Ann Phelps has touched during her lifetime. Those of us who were close to her considered her a miracle worker. She devoted an incredible amount of time and energy to ensure that no child or family was forgotten especially at Christmas time. Her devotion to her family was beautiful to witness.If you had an hour or two she would gladly bring you up to date. Ann was very proud of Rockland and loved working with the students in the Rockland Public Schools. She leaves a legacy that will be impossible to emulate, but will be a model for all of us to strive for. It goes without saying that this world is a better place because of Ann Phelps-- MISSION ACCOMPLISHED ! Our deepest sympathy to Dick, Jeff, Kim,Rick and families

  • 05/26/2021

    So sorry for your loss! She was a beautiful lady inside and out!

  • 05/26/2021

    Rockland has lost one of its true Angels. Always a smile and a kind word. Rest in Peace Mrs. Phelps.

  • 05/26/2021

    Rockland lost another wonderful person but gained another angel. Ann was a wonderful person. So kind and caring. May God give extra strength to her family during this hard and stressful time. Sending all my prayers to her family. God Bless!!

  • 05/26/2021

    Our deepest condolences to the Phelps family. Ann was a tremendous person always giving her time to help others. We will never forget her kindness and generosity to our family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Love,
    The Sawtelle Family

  • 05/26/2021

    So sorry for your loss Mrs Phelps was a wonderful Lady she always made me smile when she had to give me my shot at school she knew I did not like the flew shots you and your family are in my prayers Cathy Ewell

  • 05/26/2021

    R.I.P. Ann. My deepest condolences for the family. You will be missed.

  • 05/26/2021

    So sorry for your loss.

  • 05/26/2021

    Ann filled our lives with countless joyful memories.To us she was a most loving and generousn woman, nurse and friend. We thank her for sharing our lives in so many special ways.We shall so miss her, and we shall hold her and her dear family in our hearts and prayers. With much love, Catherine and George Hicks and family

  • 05/26/2021

    Prayers to the Phelps Family. Ann was a wonderful person and a great neighbor always waving when she drove by my house. Ann was a fantastic nurse while I was a student at Rockland High School and always smiled and was good to everyone. I am a better person because I had the pleasure of knowing her, may I be able to help people as she did. God Bless

  • 05/26/2021

    We will miss her beautiful smile and caring heart. Hugs and prayers to her family
    The Boughter Family

  • 05/26/2021

    Jeff and Family: I am so sorry for your loss. May all the wonderful memories bring a smile to your faces at this difficult time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

  • 05/26/2021

    Rick I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was a wonderful woman and will be miased by all.

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