Meredith W Kelly Sr.

Meredith Wayne Kelly Sr., affectionately known as "Peaches" and "Killer," passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 92. Born on December 28, 1933, in Ocala, Florida, Meredith lived a remarkable life filled with dedication to his family, his country, and his community.

Meredith proudly served in the United States Air Force for 26 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. His military career took him and his family across the United States and to Europe and Asia, creating cherished memories along the way. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Meredith continued his commitment to service by working at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), where he supported fellow veterans.

Education was an important part of Meredith’s life. He earned an associate's degree after completing two years of college. His thirst for knowledge and dedication to personal growth were evident throughout his life.

Meredith was a devoted family man who always looked out for his wife and children. He is survived by six of his children: Pamela Cook (Lawrence), Shari Ellison, Sandy Kelly-Moore (Robert), Rosalind De Los Santos (Rafael), Marcus Kelly, and Ramona Sylvester. He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his

grandchildren: Penelope Harrell (Matthias), Nicholas Cook (Chevon), Kelly Ellison, Kymberly Ellison, Celeste Kelly, Meredith Kelly III, Emanuel Kelly, Dolores Kelly, Dominique Moore (Katie), Sylvia Ricketts (Jason), Rachel De Los Santos, Raquel De Los Santos, Rose De Los Santos, Maiya Kelly, Marcell Kelly, Taliya Kelly, Gregory Sylvester, and Kai Sylvester; as well as 19 great-grandchildren. Meredith is also survived by his stepmother Betty Whaley; brothers Timothy Whaley, Dennis Whaley, and Derrick Whaley; sister Merlene Broadnax; aunt Lois Askew; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Rose Kelly; son Meredith Kelly Jr.; granddaughter Challandra Moore; mother Eleanor Kelly; father Charles Whaley; Mary Helen Parker; and sister Yvonne Cookie Kelly.

Despite these losses, Meredith’s enduring love for his family remained a cornerstone of his life.

Meredith had a passion for bowling and spent many years as an avid bowler and youth bowling coach.

He was a proud member of The National Bowling Association (TNBA) and participated in various clubs and organizations that reflected his interests. In addition to bowling, he enjoyed playing cards and traveling across the country to visit relatives—a testament to the value he placed on family connections.

A man of faith, Meredith was a Christian of the Baptist denomination. His beliefs guided him throughout his life as he demonstrated kindness and courtesy to those around him. Though he had a stern exterior at times, those who knew him best recognized the warmth beneath it—his great smile and willingness to help others in need were hallmarks of his character.

Meredith’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His dedication to family, service to others, and zest for life leave an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have shared in his journey.

May Meredith Wayne Kelly Sr.’s legacy bring comfort to all who loved him as they celebrate a life well-lived.

A Visitation will be held on March 11, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 02:00 PM at East Lawn Palms Mortuary & Cemetery 5801 E Grant Rd. The visitation will be held from 11:00 am to 12:30pm and the funeral will follow from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. Burial will be held under guidance of Huff’s International Funeral Home in Columbus, Georgia on Sunday, March 15, 2026.