James Robert Phelps, 82, of Lewiston, passed away Thursday, April 9th, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born March 24, 1944 in Cottonwood, Idaho, to James Edward Phelps and Peggy Lorraine Phelps.  He was the eldest of four children.  During his childhood, Jim moved to numerous cities throughout Idaho as his father built his career with First Security Bank - a path Jim would later follow himself.

In  1969, Jim began his own career with First Security Bank, holding many positions throughout the years before retiring in early 2002.  While banking was his profession, those who knew Jim best knew his true passion was cooking.  He had a gift for bringing people together through food, and nothing made him happier than preparing meals for family and friends.  Though he never became a professional chef, cooking was his love language and he shared it generously with everyone around him.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, humor, faith, and unwavering devotion to his family.  He was always ready with a joke, a warm meal, and a steady presence for those he loved.

Jim is survived by his four daughters, Kristine (Paul), Leanne (Jon), Monica (Kirk), and Paula; sister Carron, brother Gary, his nine grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

He will be  deeply missed and will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.