John David Kelly

John David Kelly, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend went to be with his Heavenly Father on July 18, 2026 at the age of 89. He passed away peacefully at his home in Olive Branch, MS.

John is survived by his wife of 64 years, Nancy Keenum Kelly; his two daughters, Lorrie Downen(Darren) and Beth Sanders(Dennis); six grandchildren, Elizabeth Graham(Brandon), Lauren Sanders, Lee Downen, Claire Agner (Josh), Conner Sanders, and Caleb Sanders; and five great-grandchildren; Harrison Graham, Lillian Graham, Ollie Agner, Rhodes Agner, and Rosalee Graham; along with many extended family. He is preceded in death by his father Clyde W. Kelly, his mother Lula M. Kelly, and his brother Thomas C. Kelly.

John was born on January 16, 1937 in Toledo, Ohio. He grew up in Memphis and was a 1955 graduate of Messick High School where he met his wife Nancy. After high school, John enlisted in the Army and joined the 101st Airborne "Screaming Eagles" at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where he served for three years. He received his Bachelor's degree from Memphis State University. He obtained his Master's degree by working days and going to school at night.

John had a long career in education, first as a wood shop teacher, a principal of Horn Lake High School, a principal of Southaven Vo Tech Center and then as Vo Tech Director of Desoto County. He retired in 1998 after serving 34 years with Desoto County Schools. He was an educator and mentor who helped shape the minds and careers of upcoming students.

In his spare time, he built his dream woodworking shop with Nancy's help. He was a master craftsman and was skilled in all areas of woodworking. He enjoyed making wood crafts and furniture for his family. He was faithful to bring his tools and knowledge to help with many home projects throughout his life. From toy boxes, cradles, mirrors, chairs, etc., his family is blessed to have many heirlooms to remember him.

As a believer is Jesus Christ, John attended Hernando Church of Christ where he often taught Sunday School. In latter years, he and Nancy attended White Station Church of Christ where they participated in the Senior Exercising Class and many outreach programs.

John will be greatly missed but his family and friends know that they will see him again. He was proud of his wife, his daughters, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren. He loved to reminisce about his past pranks, liked to joke and make people laugh, and lovingly teased his family. He will be remembered for his honesty and the lessons he taught. John left a legacy of hard work, generosity, quiet strength, laughter, and unwavering devotion. He may be absent but his enduring love remains.

Visitation will be held at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, Lakeland Hall, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, Tennessee 38133, US, on July 24, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

His Funeral Service will follow at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, Lakeland Hall, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, Tennessee 38133, US, on July 24, 2026, at 1:00 pm.