Lance Gordon Kelley was born in Cairo, GA to Nova Hunt and Beulah Mae Kelley. Lance was the youngest of four: Nova Hunt Jr., Janie Mae, Betty Duane, and Lance Gordon. Lance was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his son Lance Gordon Jr.
He is survived by his son Richard Daniel Kelley: wife Teri, and daughters Samantha and Allie. Grandson Christopher Daniel Kelley, Grandson Nicholas Patrick Kelley: wife Alexis, and sons Alfred, Nova, and Lance. Son Shaun Nova Hunt Kelley: wife Emily and daughter Nova. Nieces: Betty, Kim, and Diane; daughters of Nova Kelley. Peggy, Mary, and Nancy; daughters of Janie Mae.
Lance, a.k.a. “Dad” and “Batman”, lived an adventurous life. He graduated from Grainger High School Kinston, N.C. in 1962 and loved to talk about his years playing football as a lineman. In May of 1963, Lance joined the United States Navy where he served four years. He served on the U.S.S. Lester, and the U.S.S. Laffy. Receiving the National Defense Service Award, he was honorably discharged. Following his time in the service, Lance pursued a career with the Newport, R.I. Police Department beginning in 1970. He served in Newport for 32 years. His proudest accomplishment was starting the mounted police in Newport, R.I. Within in these years, he served on the S.W.A.T. team and learned sign language to better himself and his community. He was twice awarded medals for heroism.
Lance’s nickname in high school was “Cowboy”, and he followed through owning this title. His love for horses was his passion in life. Lance roped and trained with the best. We know “Denver” his beloved horse, misses him as well. He also enjoyed music throughout his life, playing in bands and continuing all his life. He loved sharing music and spending time with friends “pickin” the guitar and singing. He always had a ready smile and enjoyed entertaining a great deal. He shared his love of music with numerous close friends and family through his life and we will never forget those times. With so many accomplishments in his life, more than paper will allow; we as family know that the one thing Lance would want for “all” to know is his love for his Lord and Savior. His desire is for all to find salvation. John 3:16
A very special acknowledgement to our extended family, the McMahon Family: Brian and Diane and a very special “Little Brian” and their other children, Kayla, Brandon, and Mollie. We are so grateful for all you did for our father Lance. Rafter Cross Church Family….thank you so very much for being part of Lance’s life.
A memorial service will be held August 8, 2020, 11:00 am, in the Cadwell Chapel of Cox Funeral Home, Bainbridge, Georgia. The Rev. Marty Brock will officiate. Burial will follow in Oak City Cemetery.
On-line condolences may be sent at www.Coxfuneral.net. Cox Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
My deepest condolences
So sad to hear. Lance was a special member of our class of 1962 at Grainger High School , kinston, NC . I remember him fondly. My condolences to his family.
While attending school at Grainger High, Lance and I were very good friends! He was always so friendly and outgoing! We shared a few classes, and we joked around with each other! I lost touch with Lance after graduation, but thought of him often! Joe Maguire told me later Lance had moved to R.I. I have fond memories of Lance.