John Edward Kelly entered his “Heavenly Home” on November 8, 2020 at the age of 100 at Springhill Baptist Hospital in North Little Rock. John was born November 21, 1919 to William Edward and Letha Stratton Kelly in the New Bethel Community of Carlisle. He was a member and Deacon of the New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church for many years and loved the Lord very much.
John is survived by one son, Johnny Kelly and wife, Sandy of Des Arc and two very special granddaughters, Kimberly (Josh) Simmons of Des Arc and Cody (Allen) McEroy of Hazen; four great grandchildren, Jase Simmons, Kylee, Cooper, and Sawyer McElroy and a host of nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his loving wife of almost 70 years, Donna (Burnett) Kelly, great-grandson, Kyler Coad McElroy, his parents, two sisters, Rachel Waters, Louise Wooldridge and one brother, Albert (Tooter) Kelly.
John was a WWII Navy veteran and joined the Navy January 2, 1942. He served three years, nine months, and four days. He was assigned to the USS Roe, a destroyer that escorted and supported large ships. He spent the rest of his life working in the farming world until he retired.
Anyone that knew “John Kelly”, automatically knew he was a true “Man Of God”, and a very special man to everyone.
Graveside service will be held 2:00 P.M., Thursday, November 12, 2020 at the Center Point Cemetery Pavilion. Visitation will be Wednesday, November 11, 2020 from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Westbrook Funeral Home.
Arrangements are by Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen.
So very sorry for your loss. He was a dear sweet man and was so loved by so many. What a wonderful and loving legacy he leaves behind. Prayers for his family.
May God put His arms around you and give you comfort and peace knowing that he is in the presence of Jesus’s and with Ms. Donna. He was a lovable christian man that always spoke to me and was a friend to many. To know him was to love him. Prayers for you all in the lonely days ahead.
As an extraordinary man in many ways, Brother John Kelly left a legacy that is deeply appreciated and will be cherished for years to come. His stability, dedication, and love for his family, Lord, and church were clearly evident. We will miss him, but believers in Christ shall see Bro. John again. Our prayers continue for the family. May God’s Word and His Holy Spirit (the “Comforter”) provide strength, comfort, assurance and peace.
Mr. John was loved and respected by my parents, Richard and Patsy Boothe and our family. Many good memories were made with him during worship at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. Love and prayers for the family and friends.