Westboro Baptist Church founder Fred Phelps Sr. 'on the edge of death,' says estranged son

Fred Phelps Sr., the founder of the Westboro Baptist Church, is reportedly on his deathbed according to his estranged son Nathan. Known mainly for picketing funerals for soldiers, mass shooting victims, celebrities and homosexuals, the Westboro Baptist Church is one of the most notable hate groups in the world. We learn about Phelps' failing health thanks to a statement from his son that has distanced himself from this hate group.

"I'm not sure how I feel about this. Terribly ironic that his devotion to his god ends this way. Destroyed by the monster he made," Nathan Phelps wrote in a recent statement about his father's health. "I feel sad for all the hurt he's caused so many. I feel sad for those who will lose the grandfather and father they loved. And I'm bitterly angry that my family is blocking the family members who left from seeing him, and saying their good-byes."

The estranged son explained that his father has been in hospice care in Topeka, Kansas, and was also excommunicated from the "church" since August of 2013.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Westboro Baptist Church was asked about Phelps' health, but did not confirm what Nathan said.

"I can tell you that Fred Phelps is having some health problems," spokesperson Steve Drain said. "He's an old man, and old people get health problems."

Drain also didn't comment on the excommunication claims that Nathan also shared with the media. With a lack of cooperation from the hate group, we'll probably just have to wait and see if and when Phelps passes. Do you think his funeral will be picketed?