Newburyport - James C. Phelan, 73, of Peachtree City, GA, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on August 22, 2026.

Jim was born on April 19, 1953 in Newburyport, MA, to his late parents Patrick Phelan and Marilyn (Monegan) Phelan as the middle child between siblings, Patricia (Phelan) Fowler and Richard Phelan. He graduated Newburyport High School in 1972 and earned his Bachelor's degree from Southern New Hampshire University. Jim spent his career in the banking and finance industry.

He was married to his beloved wife, Cynthia "Cindy," for 47 years. They lived in Hampstead, NH where they raised their two children, Christopher "C.J." and Ashley. During his time in Hampstead, he was a member of the Hampstead Civic Club and was a volunteer soccer coach for both the boys and girls soccer teams. Jim made life-long friendships in Hampstead, one in particular led to an almost two-decade co-ownership of a sailboat with their home base in Bristol, RI. Jim enjoyed many sailing adventures. He was also an avid skier and enjoyed skiing with his family and friends throughout New England and out West. Jim and his wife traveled throughout many states as well as western Europe.

Ten years ago, they found the perfect spot to build their dream home near Plaice Cove in Hampton, NH where they created many memories with their family friends. They recently relocated to Peachtree City, GA to be close to their daughter and her family.

James will be deeply missed by his wife, Cynthia (O'Connel) Phelan, his son C.J. and his wife Jennifer, of Reno, NV, his daughter, Ashley Harry and her husband, Matthew of Peachtree City, GA, his grandson, Gavin Harry, his granddaughter, Emerson Harry, his sisters-in-law, Paula Torrisi and Deborah O'Connel as well as close friends. James' family would like to thank the Hope Center for Memory Care and Southern Grace Hospice for their support during this difficult time.

A remembrance ceremony will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Dr. Dickinson's Dementia Research Program in the Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Disorders Unit. Gifts may be made online: Giving.MassGeneral.org/donate