John C. Kelley, Sr., "JC"

John C. Kelley, Sr., “JC” aged 86, of Central, Louisiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 19, 2024. Born on April 9, 1938, in Beckley, West Virginia, he led a life marked by dedication, joy, and adventure. After graduating in 1956 from Bay High School in Panama City, Florida, he honorably served in the United States Air Force as an Airman Third Class until 1959. Post-military, JC became a respected entrepreneur, owning and operating Adams Repair and Machine Shop in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

JC was a faithful member of Zoar Baptist Church, where he actively participated in community and spiritual activities. His life was a testament to his faith and the joy he found in service. His love for the outdoors was evident in his hobbies; he was an avid golfer, fisherman, and charter boat captain. He also enjoyed bowling, playing billiards, mowing his lawn, and cherished moments spent with family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy Kelley; children, John C. Kelley, Jr. "Johnny" (Vicki), Debria Carline, Chris Kelley (Tessie), and step-daughter Angie Fleet; grandchildren, Nikki Barbre (Mark), John "Curt" Kelley, III (Brooke), Taylor White (Hayden), Victoria Fleet, Noah Fleet (Railene), and Jordan Fleet; great-grandsons, Benjamin and Tony Barbre, Cooper, Cullen, and Sutton Kelley, Royce, Jrue, Beaux, and Memphis Fleet as well as his extended family, Ramon, Kim, Christian, and Bella Rodriguez. John was preceded in death by his parents, Claude Lewis Kelley and Mary "Elsie" Kelley, and sisters, Maureen Skipper and Claudia Griffith, and grandson Trent Kelley.

A visitation will be held from 8am to 10am on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70815, followed by a memorial service at 10am. The family suggests contributions in JC’s memory to St. Jude's Hospital, honoring his lifelong commitment to helping others. John's legacy of laughter, love, and service will forever resonate with those who knew him.