Arthella Louise Phelps, 1922-2008, was a trumpet player and singer in an all-girl band, Freddie Shaffer and the Victory Sweethearts, during the Second World War.  She married Ray Phelps 55 years ago and was the mother of three children, including my beautiful wife, Stacey.  Arthella, known as Artie,  passed away on October 1 at age 85.  Stacey and the kids have gone to California for the funeral and memorial service, but I have to stay home to prepare for my speech at the Governor’s Conference on Tuesday.  Stacey says that Artie would have wanted me to stay home and work, so that is what I shall do.  Artie was one of the sweetest, most loving people I have ever known, and I will miss her.

 

A gallery of pictures is at my photography site, and there is more at the family’s memorial site.