Abraham Kelley

ABRAHAM KELLEY was the seventh of 10 children and was born on January 25, 1933, in Louisburg, North Carolina to the late Willie Frank Kelley and Lucy Rose (Hunt) Kelley. On February 26, 2024, Abraham went home peacefully in his sleep to be with the Lord while surrounded by his family. 

Abraham was educated in the public school system of Franklin County North Carolina. After high school, he joined the United States Army and was awarded the Field Lineman Military Occupational Specialty title; following which he was sent overseas for a tour of duty in Germany. After two years, Abraham was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and became Chief of Wiring Communications. Upon returning to the U.S., he was selected to attend the Non-Commissioned Officers course for leadership, that sparked countless opportunities. During this time, he was awarded the National Defense Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, Letter of Appreciation, and a host of other awards. After eight years of faithful service to our nation, he was honorably discharged and moved to Boston, Massachusetts. 

Abraham began working at Biltrite Rubber until he was able to receive his license as a Master Electrician. In 1967, he started his own business, “Abe Kelley Electrical Service, Inc.” From the inception of his business, Abraham was instrumental in guiding 11 individuals from the community to become licensed electricians, including his son-in-law Calvin Herrington; late brother Ned Kelley; and two nephews: Glen Kelley and Len Kelley. Abraham was one of many links in his community. He served as a member of The Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation, focusing on the community and developing the neighborhood.  

Abraham accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and loved the Lord. He dedicated his life to Christ after he joined Word of Life Tabernacle under the leadership of Bishop Samuel A. Darden and Co-Pastor Edith Darden. He became a devoted Deacon and a member of the Brotherhood Choir. He was a true man of God who never complained.

Abraham was preceded in death by his parents Willie Frank Kelley and Lucy Rose (Hunt) Kelley; three brothers: Frank, Wilbert, and Ned; five sisters: Elizabeth, Mamie, Elsie, Carol, and Una Mae. He leaves to cherish his loving memories: his wife Betty Kelley; one daughter, Pamela Herrington (Calvin); three sons: Shawn Kelley (Aixa), Lenwood Kelley (Jeanette), and Adtuwne Kelley; seven grandchildren: Tashiia, Daqwaun, Shanique, Linda, Amira, Mathew, and Ameirah; one sister, Lillie Kelley; one sister-in-law, Mary Kelley; god-daughter, Francina Pena; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

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