Marvin Earl Kelly, a longtime resident of Pendleton, Indiana, has passed away at the age of 90. Born on August 6, 1933, Marvin was the youngest of five children. He grew up in Anderson, Indiana, where he attended Roosevelt Elementary before his family relocated to Huntsville.
Marvin’s passion for music led him to become a drummer in the high school band during his years at Pendleton schools. After graduating in 1951, he briefly attended Valparaiso University but realized that college life wasn’t for him. He returned home and continued working at Delco Remy.
It was fate that brought Marvin to Tanke’s Drug Store in Pendleton, where he met Jill Moore, who would become his future wife. The couple eloped on August 16, 1957, and their marriage lasted until Marvin’s passing on December 24, 2023, at the age of 90.
During their time together, Marvin and Jill settled in Pendleton, Indiana, and welcomed three children into their lives. Marvin remained an active member of the community, serving on the Pendleton Town Board for twelve years, including a two-year term as President, earning him the nickname Mayor Marv. He was also involved with the early days of the Pendleton Little League Board and served on the board of the Fall Creek Regional Waste District.
In 1988, Marvin retired from Delco Remy and found enjoyment in spending time with his friends, playing golf or card games on a weekly basis. After Jill’s retirement in 2001, the couple decided to make North Port, Florida, their home. Marvin embraced the sunshine and warm weather, free from the burden of shoveling snow.
Marvin’s legacy will be carried on by his loving family, including his daughter Cheryl and her children Brock and Erin Williamson, Chase Williamson, and Paige Williamson. He also leaves a son, Garry, and his wife Shannon Kelly, along with their children Ryan and Lauren Elliott, Sasha Kelly, and Amanda Kelly. Additionally, he is survived by his son Jerry and his wife Christin Kelly, along with their children Jerin and Tiffany Kelly, and daughter Justis and her husband James King.
Marvin’s impact extended beyond his family. He leaves behind numerous friends, including his breakfast buddies John McKean, Bill Hudder, and David Sanford, as well as many cherished church friends. He is also survived by his wife’s five siblings and their families, as well as his beloved fur friends Delroy, Morrie, and Socks.
The family expresses their gratitude to Tidewell Hospice House in Port Charlotte for providing compassionate and loving care during Marvin’s final week. Donations in his honor can be made to either the Tidewell Foundation or the North Port Community United Church of Christ.
A memorial service and interment of Marvin’s cremains will take place at Sarasota National Cemetery on Thursday, January 4th, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Marvin Earl Kelly’s legacy of community involvement and cherished relationships will be remembered by all those whose lives he touched.
