Ernest "Red" B. Kelly Jr.

Ernest “Red” B. Kelly Jr. was called home to his heavenly father on July 11th, 2024, in Alvarado, Texas near his hometown of Joshua, Texas. 

He was born on July 29, 1931, in Scurry, Texas to Ernest Burton Kelly Sr. and Nora May Kelly. He is preceded in death by his parents, four siblings, a son, a son-in-law, and a grandson, all of whom he loved dearly. 

He is survived by his wife Nancy Kelly of Joshua, Texas, and their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many extended family members, as well as many close friends. 

Red passed away peacefully at the age of 92 after a courageous and dignified battle with Alzheimer’s disease, surrounded by his loved ones. 

Red developed a strong work ethic, even as a small boy growing up, by helping his parents on the farm. As a young man he served his country by joining the Navy during the Korean War. During that time, he had the privilege of being on a ship that sailed around Alaska. He loved to tell stories to his grandchildren who call him “Papa Red”. His favorite story to tell was about seeing the polar bears while in Alaska. He loved to garden and had delicious, home-grown tomatoes and peppers that he would use to make homemade hot sauce for family and friends for several years. He loved to bowl and would go twice a week to bowl with his lodge friends. He would participate in bowling tournaments in the summertime in San Antonio, and the funds raised would be donated to various organizations. He was very dedicated to this activity for over 50 years. Because he was competitive, he enjoyed playing dominos, 42, and Moon, (another domino game). He was an active member of 2 fraternal organizations and participated in their many various functions, which included serving as President of Herman Sons Lodge for a time. While there, he was found calling the bingo numbers many times, helping with the BBQ cookouts and joining in on the dance floor, dancing to waltzes and country music with the love of his life, Nancy. He was also very active in the SPJST Lodge, where he spent many hours working to help with the various activities as well as maintaining the building and grounds. 

He was a devoted and dedicated family man who loved, adored, and was very proud of his family. He would do any and everything he could to help take care of them. He was the cornerstone of his family, and his passing will be mourned deeply by everyone who knew and loved him. His cheerful attitude, bright smile, and big, long hugs will be greatly missed by many. His memory and legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones through his inspiring love and admiration of his family and friends, his kindheartedness, generosity, and unforgettable spiritedness. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM in the Lucas Funeral Home Chapel located at 518 SW Johnson Ave Burleson, Texas. A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to https://curealz.org/ .