Deacon Jimmy Kelly

The pilgrimage of life began for Jimmy Kelly on November 15, 1948 in Bladenboro, North Carolina. He was the son of the late Reverend Ernest and Etta (Singletary) Kelly. He grew up in a loving and Christian home with his parents and siblings. Jimmy quietly slipped away from us, as the Lord called him from labor to eternal rest on Tuesday, October 20, 2015. Jimmy, affectionately called “Smiley” and “Deacon Kelly” was educated in Bladen County Public Schools and graduated from Spaulding Monroe High School in 1967. He attended Southeastern Community College where he studied welding. After receiving his welding certifications, he set his sight for employment and settling down in Baltimore, Maryland. Jimmy moved to Baltimore in 1970 and found employment with the Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. A year later, he married the love of his life, Ollie Mae Austin. Six years later they welcomed their first born son, Lamont R. Kelly, and then son, Terrence M. Kelly followed two years later. Jimmy and Ollie decided they needed a “loving daughter” to complete their family, so they adopted Tia A. Johns (Bell). Jimmy was a loving and devoted father, husband and friend with a heart of gold that proved to be a blessing to all he met during his Christian walk with Christ. After a successful career with numerous awards from BG&E, Jimmy retired with thirty-nine years of service. He was also employed at Baltimore Washington Medical Center. Jimmy was raised in a God fearing home and always answered the call to serve. As a young man, he was a member of First Baptist Church in Bladenboro, NC, where he served on the Trustee Board. Upon moving to Baltimore and looking for a church home, he found his church home at First Christian Community Baptist Church (FCCBC) where he currently served as Chairman of the Deacon’s Ministry. During his Christian Journey with over two decades of membership at FCCBC, he held various positions of leadership. He taught Adult Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Mid-Day Bible Study, and Vice President of the Senior Usher Ministry. Additionally, he was an active member of the Baptist Deacon’s Conference of Baltimore. Deacon Kelly was very well loved and respected by his FCCBC church family. His love and daily walk for the Lord showed in everything he did. His favorite pastime was witnessing and reading the bible. His favorite scripture verses were Psalm 18:1-2 He loved sharing his knowledge of the Book of Revelations with his FCCBC church family. He was a pleasant light and passionate reflection of God’s love for God’s people. Introducing and bringing others closer to God was something that came natural to him and he delighted in doing the will of God. He leaves great memories to be cherished by his loving wife of 44 years, Ollie Mae Kelly. Three children, Lamont, Tia and Terrence. Two daughters-in-law ; Shajuan and Nicole Kelly. Four granddaughters Takiya Kelly, Jazmyne Kelly, Tsion-Asanti Johns, and Ryann Kelly. Two sisters Flore Mincey and Lettie Maxwell; Four Sisters-in-law; MaryAnn Kelly, Jeanette Collins, Brenda Evans and Hilda Grace Kelly. Two Brothers-in-law; Kenneth Kelly and Elder Lacy Evans. Four goddaughters and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Tributes

Deacon Jimmy Kelly

November 15, 1948 - October 20, 2015