James Craig Kelly was born in Waynesboro, TN on January 22, 1961, to James and Martha Ann Kelly of Clifton, TN, who survive. Craig departed this life unexpectedly at his home on August 16, 2023, at the age of 62 years. He is survived by a daughter, Whitney Wright, of Frisco, TX, who was the love of his life; two sisters, Kim Berlin of Waynesboro, TN and Katherine Vinson of Adamsville, TN; a niece, Caroline Vinson of Hutto, TX; nephews, Brenton Berlin of Waynesboro, TN, Brady Berlin of Columbia, TN, Reid Vinson of Hernando, MS, and Cale Vinson of Starkville, MS.
Craig helped move Bro. Leo Doyle and family from Brevard, NC to Waynesboro, TN, where Bro. Leo became Pastor to Wayne County Bible Center and Craig attended church. He and Bro. Leo were friends and enjoyed hunting and fishing together. Craig also enjoyed golf, other sports, gardening, and cooking.
Craig graduated high school in Waynesboro in 1979. He attended Columbia State Community College, later came back to Waynesboro and joined his family at Ace Hardware, and was a top businessman along with his father, James Kelly. He was also active in the local Jaycee Club. After the business sold in 1998, he went to work with the Crounce Corporation on the riverboat as cook until he had to leave because of health issues. He really enjoyed working on the boat and being friends with the crew.
Craig enjoyed playing sports in school and being with his friends. He was playing golf in his adult life until he recently was not able.
A graveside service was held at Waynesboro Memorial Gardens on August 21, 2023.
