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God carried Larry Eugene Kelly (89 yrs.) to his eternal home in Heaven on October 19, 2025. Larry was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. Known fondly as “Pap” to his grandchildren, he touched the lives of all who had the privilege to know him.
Larry and his wife, Sandra, share a beautiful love story that began when he was 21. After tossing a dime to Sandra when she was 15, playfully telling her to call him when she grew up. Five years later, Sandra was walking along the sidewalk at USM, Larry pulled up beside her and said “I’ve been waiting for you to grow up, get in”. Sixty-three years later their love remains a source of strength, joy and warmth for their family.
Larry proudly served as a public servant. He was a teacher and coach for 9 years at Soso, West Jones and Raleigh High School. Affectionately known as “Coach Kelly”, he led the girls basketball team to a state championship playoff. Prior to his coaching, Larry was an outstanding football player at Jones Junior College, having reached the achievement of playing in the Junior Rose Bowl. As Mayor of both the cities of Soso (5yrs) and Taylorsville (4yrs), Larry continued his public service career. His leadership and hands-on problem-solving approach left a lasting impact on his students and transformed the cities he served into more vibrant places.
After 42 years in the Mississippi Army National Guard, Larry retired as Sergeant Major Kelly. His commitment to his Country is admirable showcasing his dedication to a life of service. He was an active member and leader in both the Soso and Taylorsville Baptist Churches, contributing his time as a Deacon to the spiritual growth of students and older adults alike.
Larry was known for his vibrant personality and unforgettable sense of humor. He was famous for his comical stories and songs. Among many of his childhood memories, he claimed to know the details of how the skating rink tent was attached to the train caboose. The stories he told added a unique charm to his character and “his” story, “his” life, is forever cherished.
Larry was playful and kind, stern and strong; just ask his friends, family, recruits and brothers. He once held down Bill for stealing his covers and helped his other brother, James, start a car sales business. Larry held many jobs early in life, from milkman, to insurance agent to fried chicken maker. He never told what the milkman saw. He was loyal and trustworthy. Larry graduated from USM with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. He was a proud member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, a brotherhood he embraced with life- long friends.
Survivors include his loving wife Sandra, his daughter Mandee (Lee) and son Patrick; grandchildren, Andee (Stephen), Rachel (Steve), Mary Kathryn (Andy), Caroline; great-grandchildren, Chandler, Charlie, Phoebe, Callum; many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends who will forever cherish his memory and admire his service to faith, family and country.
In the words of 2 Timothy 4:7- “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith”.
He is preceded in death by his father and mother Talmadge and Bessie Lee Kelly, his brothers James and Bill and one sister, Mary Blanche.
Visitation and services to be held at First Baptist Church Taylorsville on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Visitation begins at 10am with service to follow at 11am. Following the funeral service, military graveside service will be held at Union Line Cemetery in Soso, MS.
In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Larry Kelly may be made to Union Line Cemetery, First Baptist Church Soso and/or First Baptist Church Taylorsville.
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