Dorothy Phelps Gellai

Dorothy Louise Phelps Gellai, 64, of Gilbert, Arizona, passed away peacefully at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa on July 30, 2026, from complications of pneumonia. She was surrounded by her loving family—her husband, Andy; her sons, Paul and Matthew; and her daughter-in-law, Abby.

Born on June 17, 1962, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, to Marion Riley Phelps and Frederick M. Phelps III, Dorothy lived a life defined by warmth, intellect, and deep connection. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Central Michigan University in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry and biology, later earning her Master’s in Education of the Deaf from Smith College in 1989. Dorothy dedicated her early career to teaching deaf students at the Clarke School for the Deaf and in San Jose public schools, where she served as a cherished mentor and role model.

In 1992, while teaching at Clarke, Dorothy reconnected with Andy Gellai—whom she had first crossed paths with as a young child. The two fell in love and were married in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, on July 15, 1995. They built a life together in San Jose, California, before moving to Arizona in 2002. Above all else, Dorothy poured her energy and love into her family as a devoted mother, creating a vibrant, supportive home for her sons, Paul and Matthew.

Beyond her teaching and family, Dorothy was a master genealogist who spent decades rigorously documenting the Phelps and Riley family lineages. She loved traveling to research historical records and generously helping fellow researchers across the country.

Naturally extroverted, Dorothy possessed a remarkable gift for connecting with people, effortlessly making lasting friends across the nation and around the world. Her infectious "can-do" spirit, patience, and humor touched countless lives—a legacy reflected in the overwhelming outpouring of hundreds of loving tributes from near and far following her passing.

She is survived by her loving husband of 31 years, Andrew "Andy" Gellai; her sons, Paul (Abby) Gellai and Matthew Gellai; her brothers, Fred (Li Li) Phelps and Rick (Emily) Phelps; an expansive network of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended relatives; and countless lifelong friends across the globe.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gilbert Memorial Park Cemetery & Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Gilbert Memorial Park, with burial to follow. Those wishing to attend are invited to contact the family for service times and details. An additional service in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, is being planned for summer 2027. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dorothy’s honor to a genealogical or educational organization of your choice.