73 The Alabama Lawyer 310 (2012). MEMORIALS.

• Author: Sam Moore Phelps, David Verlin Tranter

Alabama Bar Journal

2012.

73 The Alabama Lawyer 310 (2012).

MEMORIALS

MEMORIALSSam Moore Phelps, David Verlin TranterSam Moore Phelps

Sam Moore Phelps died April 1S, 2011 in Tuscaloosa.

Sam received his undergraduate degree from Auburn University in 1953 and his J.D. from the University of Alabama in 195S. Before earning his J.D., he served as an officer in the United States Air Force.

Sam practiced in Tuscaloosa County for more than 45 years, organizing the firm of Phelps Jenkins Gibson and Fowler LLP in 1968. He was a member of the Tuscaloosa County Bar Association and American Bar Association. He was also a member of the Farah Order of Jurisprudence, listed in Best Lawyers in America and a fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers.

Sam was a fierce and determined advocate with a razor-sharp mind and wit. He was always soft spoken, courteous and collegial to all. These traits earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow members at the bar and the judges before whom he practiced in the state and federal court systems. He was a lawyer's lawyer in the finest sense.

Sam's strong intellect, common sense, good judgment and people skills as a lawyer carried over into his business and personal life. He was active in community affairs, serving on the DCH Health Care Authority from 1973 until 1999, the last 23 years as chair Under his leadership, the DCH became one of the leading healthcare facilities in the southeast. In addition to his service on the DCH Health Care Authority Board, Sam served on the Tuscaloosa County Civil Service commission. In 2005, he was elected a "Pillar of the Community" by the Community Foundation of West Alabama.

Sam was one of the founders of Greene Group, Inc., a holding company which owned and operated many highly successful business ventures. He was also one of the founders of Bryant Bank.

Lawyer businessman, community leader and a soft-spoken man are apt descriptions of Sam Moore Phelps. He will be missed.

-James J. Jenkins, Plielps Jenkins Gibson and Fowler LLP, Tuscaloosa

David Verlin Tranter

David Verlin Tranter, 54, of Clanton died at his home May 8, 2012, following an extended illness. David was...