Christine Ann Phelps, 44, of Terryville, beloved fiancée of Ralph Cortigiano, passed away peacefully Friday, February 12, 2016 at Smilow Cancer Hospital surrounded by her loving family after courageously battling Leukemia for four and a half years. Born March 18, 1971 in Hartford, she was the daughter of Bruce and Marie (Malentacchi) Phelps of New Hartford.

Christine was a gifted and talented artist and had worked as a graphic designer prior to her illness. She loved various forms of arts and crafts, especially creating many unique canvas paintings. An animal lover, she was known to rescue turtles, baby raccoons, birds and squirrels. She loved the Boston Red Sox, attending concerts and spending valued time with her family, friends, and most of all her two beloved dogs, Jack and Miller, who were her faithful companions to the end.
In addition to Ralph and her parents, Christine is survived by her son, Joel Phelps of Terryville; her sister, Laurie Dailey Spruill and her husband Marc of Enfield and their children Daryl, Matthew and Kyrah; her brother, Ryan Phelps of Canton and his son Eli; her maternal grandmother, Margaret Malentacchi of Canton, and numerous extended family members. She also leaves behind many close friends and a large group of on-line artist friends. She was predeceased by her maternal grandfather, Patrick Malentacchi and her paternal grandparents Stuart and Alice Phelps.

A memorial service will be celebrated at 4:00 PM on Saturday, February 27th, at the Vincent Funeral Home, 120 Albany Turnpike, Canton. Her family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 1:00 PM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 1311 Mamaroneck Avenue, Suite 310, White Plains, NY 10605. Please visit Christine's "Book of Memories" at www.vincentfuneralhome.com for online condolences.