Mr. Edwin Lamar "Ed" Kelly, Jr.

Mr. Edwin Lamar Kelly Jr., known affectionately as “Ed,” passed away peacefully at his residence in Thomaston, Georgia, on April 18, 2026. He was 91 years old.

Ed was born on October 17, 1934, in Thomaston, Georgia, to the late Edwin Lamar Kelly Sr. and Louise Kelly. A lifelong resident of Thomaston, he was a devoted member of First Baptist Church since childhood, where his faith remained a guiding force throughout his life.

He graduated from R.E. Lee Institute in 1953 and continued his education at North Georgia Military College and Gordon College. Ed went on to build a successful and diverse career. He owned and operated two Hickory Farms retail locations in Jacksonville, Florida, and later served as Regional Manager of the Southeast for Teledyne Landis Machine, overseeing operations from Savannah to Memphis and from Louisville to Key West.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Ed was deeply committed to public service. He served in the Civil Defense program and was instrumental in establishing the 911 emergency service in Upson County. His dedication to community safety was further demonstrated through his 30 years as Captain of the Rock Hill Fire Department and his concurrent service as District Chief for the Thomaston Volunteer Fire Department.

Ed also shared in business ventures with his wife, Myris Kelly, as they owned and operated Tara Hallmark stores in Thomaston, Barnesville, and Griffin, Georgia.

Throughout his life, Ed was known for his steady leadership, strong sense of duty, and quiet generosity. He was a man who valued hard work, faith, and service to others, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Ed was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was preceded in death by his wives, Myris Alsobrook Kelly, and Sara Joe Kelly.

He is survived by his son, Mark Kelly and daughter-in-law, Karen Kelly; his daughter, Kristina Kelly; his granddaughter, Beth McKinley (Josh McKinley); his grandson, Grant Kelly (Niki Kelly); his great-grandsons, J.J. McKinley and Quinton McKinley; and his great-granddaughters, Jade Kelly and Davie Kelly.

In lieu of flowers, Ed requested that donations be made in his memory to the “Pass the Salt” volunteer ministry at First Baptist Church, which provides meals and outreach to the community.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.