John "Red" Kelley

John “Red” Kelley, age 98, passed away on Thursday, November 17, 2022 in Gulfport.

John was born in Dalton, GA, but grew up in Atlanta. He served in WWII as a paratrooper in the 11^th Airborne. John graduated from North Georgia College and went to work at Keesler as an instructor in the Electronic School. He spent 50 years with Boy Scouts of America, Troop 301, guiding many young men to the rank of Eagle Scout. He also planned and participated in 24 hikes on the Appalachian Trail with the scouts. He received many awards of service through Boy Scouts and his community,

John was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.S. Kelley of Atlanta; sister, Martha Kelley of St. Petersburg; and wife of 64 years, Gloria.

He is survived by his son, Phil Kelley of Gulfport; daughter, Sophye (Johnnie) Wimpee of Melbourne, FL; granddaughter, Sarah (Brian) Lawson of Murfressbough, TN; and grandson, Adam (Casey) Wimpee of Melbourne, FL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity UMC, Troop 301 Tiak Scholarship Fund or Trinity’s mission fund.

A service of remembrance will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 2, 2022 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Gulfport. Visitation will follow the service. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15^th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the Kelley family.