William’s life was marked by steady devotion and a quiet strength that carried him through changing seasons with dignity. From humble beginnings—born into a sharecropper’s life—he met each day with the resolve of a hard-working man, building a life defined by perseverance, responsibility, and care for those who depended on him.
He worked for Winecoff and Co. from the 1960’s to the early 1990’s, giving years of faithful effort that reflected the values he lived by: showing up, doing the work well, and providing for his family. His resilience was evident not only in the long arc of his working years, but in the way he steadily shaped a secure home life through dedication and endurance.
He was married to Mary Frances Kelley for 71 years, a partnership rooted in loyalty and lasting love. Together they raised four children, and William remained a devoted husband and father whose presence was deeply cherished. He also carried the quiet pride of being the first person in his family to own a home—an achievement that spoke to a lifetime of persistence and determination.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Frances Kelley; his daughters, Patricia Gail Schell and Mary Deann Riddle (William Ray); and his sons, Ronald Kelley and David Franklin Kelley; 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Donnie Eugene Kelley; his father, Ruben Lee Kelley; his mother, Annie Mae Kelley; his sisters, Audrey D. Ginnery, Annie Ruth Hall, and Wanda Sue Merck; and his brother, Charles Edward Kelley.
William will be remembered as a beloved and cherished man—devoted in his commitments, resilient in his journey, and steadfast in the work of building a life and family that will continue to honor his memory.
Visitation will be held at Floral Hills Funeral Home, 3150 Lawrenceville Hwy, Tucker, GA 30084, on May 16, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
A graveside service will follow at Floral Hills Memory Gardens, 3000 Lawrenceville Hwy, Tucker, Ga 30084, on May 16, 2026, at 2:00 pm.
