Kelly attended Franklin Central High School in Indianapolis. While taking a class in Driver’s Education, he met Linda Little, who became the love of his life. They married on September 1, 1973 and have been married for fifty-one years. Kelly finished high school and graduated with the Class of 1973. Following graduation, Kelly enlisted in the Armed Forces serving and protecting our country for over five and one-half years in the United States Marine Corp. As a Sergeant, he was awarded the Medal of Good Conduct and presented with letters of appreciation. Following his military service, he attended Nashville State Technical Institute (now known as Nashville State Community College).
Professionally, Kelly worked for HCA (Hospital Corporation of America) for fifteen years as a Computer Technician and as a Transporter for Swift and Western Express for many years. However, Kelly was a true musician at heart. He learned to play all the brass musical instruments, specializing in playing the tuba and trombone. His passion was performing the music he loved with the Dixieland Band, Graylynn Quintet, the American Legion Band, the Nashville Community Band, and the Tulip Grove Orchestra. It was his honor to play in the Marine Corp Band for numerous Rose Bowl Parades.
Kelly was a member of Green Hill Church and enjoyed being a part of the Sunday School and Bus Ministries at Old Hickory First Baptist Church. He set quite the example and mentored his sons and others as a volunteer with the Scouts of America program. Kelly loved well . . . was well-loved . . . and will be greatly missed.
Kelly is preceded in death by his mother, Marion J. (Dillard) Allison. He is survived by his father, Thomas L. Allison; his loving wife of fifty-one years, Linda S. Allison; Son, Brandon Allison; daughter, Crystal Parfitt (London); son, Casey Allison; grandchildren, Ellis Parfitt and Kylan Parfitt; sister, Lynn Allison Erdmann (Edward); and brothers Greg Allison (Debbi) and Richard Allison (Fern). Kelly also leaves behind many extended family members and friends.
There will be a Gathering of Family & Friends on Friday, October 4, from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM at the Hermitage Funeral Home. A Celebration of Kelly’s Life will follow at 11:00 AM in the Tulip Grove Chapel with Dr. Jud Hays, officiating. Following the service, Kelly will be laid to rest in the Rachel Mausoleum at Hermitage Memorial Gardens.
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