Dr. Kelly graduated from T.L. Hanna High School in Anderson, SC, and continued his education at Clemson University with a Bachelor of Mathematics, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with Master of Divinity, and Doctorate of Philosophy in Christian Ethics. He was the Student Mobilization Leader for Campus Crusade for Christ at Clemson University and from this he was called to ministry. Brother Kelly began pastoral ministry at First Baptist Church in Melissa, Texas, then became pastor at Chapin Baptist Church for 24 years. He then began pastoring with his son at Refuge Church.
Ken Kelly is survived by his wife, Anita Bishop Kelly; sons, Kenneth William Kelly, Jr., Kevin Bishop Kelly (Erin), Tyler Layton Kelly; grandchildren, Emma Grace Kelly, Sadie Jane Kelly, Campbell Bishop Kelly, and Kenneth William “Liam” Kelly, III; sister Bess Kelly; niece, Jennifer Thompson (Tom); and nephew, Ross Kelly (Jamile); and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Wade Alan Kelly.
A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at Chapin United Methodist Church, 415 Lexington Avenue, Chapin, SC 29036 with visitation one hour before the service. Burial will follow at Chapin Baptist Church Cemetery, 950 Old Lexington Highway, Chapin, SC 29036.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorials to be given to Refuge Church, 109 Killian Point Circle, Chapin, SC 29036.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmanchapin.com for the Kelly family.
