Chalmers "C.W." Wesley Kelly, Jr., 83, of Lillington, passed away, Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at his home in Lillington, NC.

C.W. was born June 10, 1941 in Harnett County to the late Chalmers Kelly Sr. and Mildred Brown Kelly.  He was born and raised on a small farm in Mamers.  C.W. was a veteran of the US Army and graduate of Boone Trail High School and Central Carolina Community College.  He excelled in sports including basketball, football and played softball in Lee County until age 45.  C.W. was a long time member Boone Trail Ruritan Club.  He enjoyed traveling and fishing on the Outer Banks.  C.W. was a man of great stature at 5' 18", the only thing bigger than him was his heart.  He will be missed by his family and friends.  C.W. was a loving husband, father and proud grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Vernal Kelly McNeill; and brother-in-law, James Lee McNeill.

C.W. is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joyce Kelly; daughter, Audra Abernethy and husband, Robert; brothers, Reggie Kelly and wife, Sheryl, and Stuart Kelly and wife, Derenda; grandchildren, Robyn and Bobby Abernethy; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held 3 pm Saturday, August 3, 2024 at Antioch Baptist Church, 6670 Old US 421, Lillington, NC 27546, with Rev. Rick Beacham and Rev. John Taylor officiating.  Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be sent to a charity of one's choice.