Jesse Gene Kelley

“The Heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament showeth his handiworks.” So, it is with fond memories that we reflect and celebrate the life of Mr. Jesse Gene Kelley. 

Mr. Jesse Gene Kelley was born on August 21, 1953 to the late Mr. Willie L. Tiner and Mrs. Lucille Deviner, in Bibb County, AL.  

Mr. Kelley accepted Christ at an early age and joined Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. Later, he joined Scott’s Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Vincent, Alabama under the pastorage of Reverend Joseph Petty. Later in life, he rejoined Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorage of Reverend Clarence Carter where he served as a proud usher, worked on the churches security team and was a faithful member until his death. 

He was a graduate of Vincent High School class of 1971.  He was known as an all-around star athlete in baseball, football, and basketball. His love for sports evolved into three decades as a sports official for baseball, football, and basketball. He officiated athletic contests at every level to include youth and collegiate sports. He earned the respect of coaches, athletes, parents, and young officials. During his last days he still spoke of his love and joy for life, family, and anything sports related. Loved by many, Jesse exhibited a zest for life and love for people. He had a huge giving heart. His smile was electric, and his personality was captivating. He was always the life of the party!

In 1973 he was united in marriage to Mattie Ruth Tilley and to this union two children Le’Kisha Kelley and Brian Kelley were born. He was a dedicated employee of Southern Company for over 35 years. His post-retirement years were spent working in security with Securitas, in conjunction with Southern Company. 

He gave God the glory for all things, good and bad. It is with this in mind, that we hold our heads high and release our father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to the High Place. Though we all loved him in our own unique ways we accept that God is God all by Himself, and it is His will that must be done. We find peace in knowing that our loved one abides in a land where the weary shall be at rest. He departed this life on February 19, 2021 at Shelby Baptist Medical Center. He was preceded in death by his father, Willie L. Tiner, mother, Lucille Kelley, and stepfather, Charles “Buster” Kelley. 

He leaves to cherish his memories four children; Le’Kisha (Stephen) Kelley-Eyma of Harvest, AL, Brian Sharod (Tiffany) Kelley of Orlando, FL,  Deryl (Tina) Watters of Sylacauga, AL and LaShan Johnson of Columbiana, AL; eleven grandchildren; NaKia (Alex), MarKari, Addison, Ayden, Greyson, Harrison, Davuntae (Pamela), Micah, Makylah, Deryl Jr. and Ne’Onnah; five great-grandchildren; Kylen, Krimsyn, Kohen, Kayden and Kylie; three aunts, Willie Mae Cottingham of Montevallo, AL, Lucy Lee Hale of Alabaster, AL , Addie Lue Deviner of Helena, AL; two uncles, Sam (Janice) Jr. Deviner of Centreville, AL, Larry (Lisa) Deviner of Wilton, AL; a host of cousins, other relatives and friends. 

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