Mrs. Bessie C. Kelley, 88, entered the presence of her Lord peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on Saturday, November 2, 2024. She was born in Forest, MS on Thursday, October 15, 1936, to the late William and Pearl Culpepper. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Waynesboro. She was an operator of Kelley Brothers Contractors, Inc. along with her three sons and was the financial administrator for many years.

She will always be known for her unwavering faith and loving heart; Bessie devoted her life to serving others. As a Sunday school teacher and faithful church member, she nurtured the faith of all that knew her. Her infectious smile and servant's heart will be missed by her family and friends.

Mrs. Kelley is preceded in death by her husband, T. O. Kelley, Sr.; parents, William and Pearl Culpepper; two brothers, Willie Lee Culpepper and Calvin Culpepper; two sisters, Ellen Truhett Miles and Pearl Panno. She is survived by three sons, Tommy Kelley (Karen) of Waynesboro, MS, Jerry Kelley (Laura) of Buckatunna, MS, and Terry Kelley (Susie) of Waynesboro, MS; four grandchildren, Kati Crager (Coby), Marc Kelley (Tish), Megan Hancock (Corey), and Carson Kelley; five great grandchildren, Pacee Lane Kelley, Caroline Kelley Crager, Fisher James Kelley, Lucy Anne Crager, and Millie Thomas Hancock; a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation for Mrs. Kelley will be held from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Waynesboro, Waynesboro, MS. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Waynesboro, MS with Dr. Steve Smith and Dr. Terry Williams officiating. Interment will be in Kelley-Mozingo Cemetery in Waynesboro, MS.