Affectionately known as “Ken”, he was born on August 5th 1949 in Whiteville, NC. He was the son of Wilbur Kelly and Dorothy Babson who both preceded him in death. Ken is survived by his wife of 34 years, Michelle Bryan Kelly. Ken was a loving brother to five siblings: Inez Jones of Ash NC, Jacky Kelly of Kernersville NC, Terris Kelly of Copper Center, Alaska, and Barry Kelly of Kernersville, NC. Ken was preceded in death by his brother, Donald “Buddy “Kelly. Ken had several nieces and nephews.
On February 19, 1971, Ken was drafted into the United States Army. Ken served in the Army for two years, and spent almost a year in Vietnam. Ken did not agree with the war, but was a true patriot by honoring his country’s request of service. He was a recipient of many honors and metals consisting of National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Medal and one of the highest honors—THE BRONZE STAR.
Ken has lived in many places over the years including Charlotte, NC and Alexandria, VA, where he worked as a Field Superintendent and Foreman of both sprinkler and construction companies. He retired back to the original family home upon retirement in 2013 which is located in Ash, NC.
Funeral services will be Sunday, September 15, 2019 at two o’clock in the afternoon at White Funeral and Cremation Service, 3660 Express Drive, Shallotte, North Carolina.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from one o’clock until two o’clock at the funeral home.
The family would like to thank the numerous caregivers, doctors, family and friends who have helped and supported Ken and the family through this journey. The family has requested memorials be sent to SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, 955 Mercy Lance, SE, Bolivia, NC 28422.
You may offer online condolences at www.shallottefunerals.com
White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18