Brandi Kelly
Dad's greatest gift was connection. Dad never met a stranger. As kids, I remember going out to eat, and he’d strike up conversations with the waitress—teasing, joking, making them laugh. He had a way of making people feel seen and special, leaving joy in his wake.
His life tells a simple, powerful story: faithfulness in work, devotion in love, kindness to all. His legacy is laughter, humility, and warmth.
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22–23).
Dad would have moved heaven and earth to avoid conflict. He was kind, meek, and gentle. But if he were here giving us one last piece of advice, I believe he’d say this: Love Jesus. Love one another. And remember—“this too shall pass.”
He will be missed, but today we rejoice that he is with Jesus and reunited in Heaven with Mother, Bub, and so many others. I like to imagine that if there are horses in Heaven, Bub is already saddling them for their first of many rides together.