William James Kelly Jr, age 81, of Erwin, NC, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 20, 2024. William was born on October 30, 1942 in Columbus County to the late William James Kelly and Edna Peterson Kelly.  In addition to his parents, William is preceded in death by his wife; Veda Merle Shipman Kelly and brothers; Larry and Kenneth.

William worked as a truck driver for over 50 years.  He was a member of Shotwell Baptist Church, Raleigh, NC.

Left to cherish his memories are his daughter; Stephanie Lynn Kelly Capps (Dewayne) of Benson, NC, three sons; William James "Jimmy" Kelly III (Christie) of King, NC, Gregory Stephen Kelly (Pam) of Erwin, NC and Phillip Travis Kelly (Stefanie) of Benson, NC, a sister; Nellie Kelly Yancy of Wake Forest, NC, eight grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 2:00 pm at McKenzie Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Marvin Warfe officiating.  Burial will follow at Pierce Cemetery, Hallsboro, NC.  The family will receive friends from 12:30 pm - 1:45 pm prior to the service.

McKenzie Mortuary, 112 Jefferson Street, Whiteville, NC  is serving the Kelly family.