John was born October 15, 1932 in Harrisburg, PA to the late Willard H. McKelvey and Marian Virginia McElroy McKelvey. He grew up in Darlington, SC and attended Darlington County Public Schools.
John is survived by his loving wife, Greta Flowers McKelvey; John Willard McKelvey, Jr. (Johnny Mac) of Charleston, SC; his two daughters: Neale McKelvey Young (Darryl) of Charleston and Michele McKelvey Driggers (Jeff) of Effingham, SC. Three grandchildren: Matt Humphries (Taylor) of Florence, SC; Zach Humphries of Effingham, SC and Lauren Humphries of Effingham, SC. His brother-in-law: Mike Flowers (who was there whenever needed) of Timmonsville, SC.
John is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers: Jimmy McKelvey, Richard McKelvey and Robert F. Allen.
John was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Florence, SC. He was a devoted Christian Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother. He served in the United States Air Force and retired after 20 years of service. He served in several oversea duty stations, including: Japan, Korea and Vietnam. He also served in many stateside duty stations including: SAC Headquarters in Omaha, NE and Hickam A. F. Base in Honolulu, Hawaii.
John was an avid bowler, pinochle player and fisherman. He was a Table Tennis Champ. His greatest joy in his life came from a life with the love of his life, Greta. He also got great joy watching his grandchildren play sports and growing up. John loved his family only second to God.
A Visitation will be held Monday May 16, 2022 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 524 South Ebenezer Road, Florence, SC 29501. A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will follow at 12:00pm at Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery.
Memorials can be made the Miracle League of Florence.
Arrangements are being handled by Carolina Memorial Funerals & Cremation, 7113 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC 29406. www.dignitymemorial.com.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.carolinamemorial.com for the McKelvey family.
