Mr. Clarence Eugene Kelley, 77, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family in Louisville, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, October 1st, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Charles Rook and Rev. David Keen officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Murphy Creek Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Clarence was born on April 6, 1947, in Noxubee County, to Preston Clark Kelley and Gladys Higginbotham Kelley. Clarence was the oldest of the “Kelley Boys” and was affectionately known by his classmates as “Biscuit Kelley.” He graduated from Louisville High School in 1963 and attended one year of college at East Central Community College. In 1967, he married his first love, Barbara Eaves. In 1973, they became parents to their only child, Stephanie. Clarence lovingly took care of his wife until she passed away in 1998.
In 1974, he began his career as an officer with the Mississippi Highway Patrol, earning the rank of Master Sergeant. After retirement, Clarence took on many roles. He served as director of Winston County Emergency Management Team, served as chief of the East Winston Volunteer Fire Dept, and served on the Executive Board of the Mississippi Fire Fighters Assn. He was also a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for 35 years.
In 2010, he married the second love of his life, Beverly, where he became “Pop” to two bonus daughters, Stacey and Stephanie, and six grandchildren. At this point, he took on the most challenging job which was attempting to keep everyone in line.
He is survived by his wife, Beverly Hudson Kelley of Louisville; daughters, Stephanie Kelley of Columbus, MS, Stacey Boatner, and Stephanie (Josh) Lawrence, both of Louisville; three brothers, Paul (Diane) Kelley of Sebastopol, MS, Joe (Cindy) Kelley of Louisville, and Davis (Pam) Kelley of Louisville; and six grandchildren, Keylone Moore, Laney Boatner and fiancé, Scott Ferguson, C. J. Boatner, David Lawrence, Rayleigh Lawrence, and Madi Grace Kelley.
Pallbearers will be Bruce Lee, Keylone Moore, Doug Kelley, Scott Ferguson, Josh Kelley, and Josh Lawrence. Honorary pallbearers will be the Bethel Baptist Church Deacons.
Special thanks to Dr. Justin Baker and NP Lori Beth Brent, Jackson Oncology Associates, the Enhabit Hospice Staff especially Robyn White, as well as his sitters, Rebecca Easley, Desiree Harrington, and Maria Ball who all took such good care of him throughout his long journey. A special thanks also goes to his personal nurse and daughter, Stephanie Lawrence, who gave selflessly to ensure he had the best care.
Memorials in Clarence’s memory may be made to the Mississippi Firefighters Assn, (www.mffa.com ) .