In American religious history, Fred Wade Phelps is well known for his involvement with the Westboro Baptist Church. He was born in Meridian, Mississippi, on November 13, 1929, and became a polarizing pastor known for his controversial views.
Early Life and Education
Fred Wade Phelps was born to Fred Waldron and Catherine Idalette Johnston. His childhood shaped his beliefs and profession.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| November 13, 1929 | Fred Wade Phelps is born in Meridian, MS. |
| 1935 | Catherine Phelps, his mother, dies at age 28. |
| 1952 | Fred marries Margie M. Simms after meeting at the Arizona Bible Institute. |
Legal Career
After law school, Phelps became a civil rights attorney. Disgrace and misconduct plagued his legal career.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1964 | Earns law degree from Washburn University. |
| 1969 | Suspended from practicing law for two years due to misconduct. |
Religious Leadership
Pastor Phelps of Westboro Baptist Church was notorious for his anti-gay protests and aggressive rhetoric. His sermon was based on biblical interpretation.
| Year | Significant Event |
|---|---|
| 1991 | Westboro Baptist Church gains national attention for protests. |
| 2007 | Phelps and his congregation picket at military funerals, causing public outrage. |
Family Life
Fred Wade Phelps and Margie M. Simms had 13 children. The Phelps family is involved in controversial church activities.
| Family Member | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Margie M. Simms | Wife |
| Nathan Phelps | Son |
| Shirley Phelps-Roper | Daughter |
| Megan Phelps-Roper | Granddaughter |
| 54 grandchildren | Various grandchildren |
Notable Family Members
Some of Fred Wade Phelps’s children and grandkids have become prominent critics of the Westboro Baptist Church.
| Family Member | Role/Contribution |
|---|---|
| Nathan Phelps | Estranged son, outspoken critic of father’s views. |
| Shirley Phelps-Roper | Active member of the church, known for public appearances. |
| Megan Phelps-Roper | Former church member, author, and speaker against the church’s beliefs. |
Controversies
Due of his outspokenness, Phelps’s life was full of controversy. His church’s protests were seen as extremist in America, therefore many opposed them.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2014 | Fred Phelps dies, sparking debates about his legacy. |
| 2013 | Excommunicated from the Westboro Baptist Church. |
Fred Wade Phelps’s Death
Fred Wade Phelps, 84, died on March 19, 2014. His death ended a period of internal dispute and public perception for the Westboro Baptist Church.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 19, 2014 | Fred Phelps dies in Topeka, Kansas. |
| 2014 | After his death, debates arise about his impact and legacy. |
Legacy
Public opinion is deeply divided on Fred Wade Phelps’ legacy. Despite his contentious legacy, his family’s activism on religious extremism and civil rights continues to spark debate.
| Legacy Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Influence on Activism | Phelps’s family has been involved in various forms of activism, both for and against his views. |
| Public Reception | Reactions to Phelps’s legacy vary widely, from condemnation to a critical examination of religious freedom in America. |
FAQ
Which role did Fred Wade Phelps play in Westboro Baptist Church?
Pastor Fred Wade Phelps of Westboro Baptist Church was noted for his controversial sermons and actions.
How many kids did Fred Wade Phelps have?
Fred Wade Phelps and Margie M. Simms had 13 kids.
What happened to Fred Phelps after death?
The activities of Fred Phelps’ family fueled debates about his legacy and influence after his death.
Who are Fred Phelps’ prominent relatives?
His son Nathan Phelps and granddaughter Megan Phelps-Roper have criticized the church’s doctrines.
