Phelps Family Genealogy & History

Michael Fred Phelps II, born June 30, 1985, is a former competitive swimmer and the most decorated Olympian of all time, with 28 medals, including 23 golds. Known for his remarkable achievements in swimming, Phelps holds records for Olympic gold medals in individual events and total medals. He made history at the 2008 Beijing Olympics by winning eight gold medals, surpassing Mark Spitz's record. Phelps also founded the Michael Phelps Foundation to promote swimming and healthy lifestyles and was named Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year in 2008. His illustrious career, under coach Bob Bowman, solidified his reputation as the greatest swimmer ever.

Michael Phelps was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and is the youngest of three children. His mother, Deborah Sue "Debbie" Phelps, is a middle school principal, while his father, Michael Fred Phelps, was a retired Maryland State Trooper. His parents divorced when he was nine, impacting him deeply. Phelps began swimming at age seven, influenced by his sisters and with encouragement from his mother. He trained at the North Baltimore Aquatic Club, eventually setting age group records and pursuing a legendary swimming career.

Fred Waldron Phelps Sr. was a prominent and controversial American minister known for founding the Westboro Baptist Church in 1955. A former civil rights attorney and disbarred lawyer, Phelps gained notoriety for his vehemently anti-gay protests and homophobic views. His activism often targeted funerals, gay pride events, and other high-profile gatherings, attracting widespread condemnation. Despite numerous legal challenges, Phelps continued his protests, citing them as a sacred duty. His church, labeled as a hate group by organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center, remains active today.

Born in Meridian, Mississippi, on November 13, 1929, Fred Phelps was the elder child of Catherine Idalette Johnston and Fred Wade Phelps, a devout Methodist railroad policeman. After his mother’s death in 1935, Phelps was raised by his aunt until his father remarried, leading to a lifelong estrangement from his family.

James and Oliver Phelps, born on February 25, 1986, in Birmingham, England, are renowned English actors and identical twins. Best known for their roles as Fred and George Weasley in the iconic Harry Potter film series (2001-2011), they have since expanded their careers into podcasting and various projects. Beyond acting, James and Oliver have also directed and hosted shows like "Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking" and collaborated on a podcast discussing personal lives and travel experiences. Their involvement in the Harry Potter Exhibition and various charity endeavors, including Teenage Cancer Trust, highlight their commitment to both their craft and philanthropy.

James and Oliver Phelps are the sons of Susan (née Spare) and Martyn Phelps, born in the Sutton Coldfield area of Birmingham. Oliver is the older twin by 13 minutes. During their school years, they attended Little Sutton Primary School and Arthur Terry Secondary School. Their family background provides a foundation for their successful careers in acting and beyond.

Chance Russell Phelps, born on July 14, 1984, in Riverton, Wyoming, was a United States Marine Corps lance corporal posthumously promoted from private first class. He served with the 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Phelps heroically manned his machine gun despite being wounded, covering the evacuation of his convoy under heavy fire before being fatally wounded. His bravery and sacrifice were commemorated in the HBO film "Taking Chance," based on Lt. Col. Michael Strobl's account of escorting Phelps' remains home. Notable memorials include Phelps Field and Phelps Hall, highlighting his enduring legacy.