Elbert Kelly

Elbert Kelly of Chatfield, Texas, was gracefully placed into the arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 10, 2025, at the age of 76.

Elbert was born to Lorraine Moss and Nathaniel Kelly on October 4, 1948, in Chatfield, Texas. He was a devoted family man who found joy in simple pleasures—fishing, grilling, playing putt-putt golf, watching football, and restoring old-school cars. However, he only truly enjoyed these hobbies when his loved ones were by his side. He was deeply family-oriented; his grandchildren never went more than two days without a phone call or a visit from him.

At the age of 21, Elbert enlisted in the United States Army and bravely served his country during the Vietnam War, where he was exposed to high levels of Agent Orange. Despite this, he remained resilient and determined throughout his life.

Elbert was highly educated and passionate about learning. He earned multiple degrees, including a bachelors degree from Stephen G Austin, a boiler technicians certificate, an auto body repair technician certificate. He was an ordained Minister at point in his life.
He was also a skilled self taught carpenter, plumber, electrician and mechanic.
He was man of many talents.
He helped other veterans by transporting them to their appointments and honoring them as a Color Guard for funeral services. He also was a mentor for many people of all backgrounds. Throughout his career, he served as a Respiratory Therapist, Algebra Teacher, and bus driver for Mildred and Blooming Grove ISDs. He later retired from his role as a Purchasing Agent at Cargo Craft. Though he loved his work, he always prioritized his family above all.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Diann Grant Kelly; his adopted son, Eric Grant; son, Curtis Brown and wife Carrie; Daughter, Lorraine Solares and husband Anthony. He also leaves behind his brothers, Robert Moss, Willie Kelly and wife Cora, and Lawerane Kelly; niece, Christal Kelly, whom his mother adopted; and his cherished grandchildren: Curtis Brown Jr., Brooklyn Berry, Philip White, Gerardo Delgadillo III, Madison De’Pugh, Sage Lancon, Alejandro Lancon, Shantell Solares, and Kira Solares—along with many other nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lorraine Moss; sister, Jessie Griggs; brother, Albert Griggs; nephew, Timothy Kelly; and his best friend and brother-in-law, John Lewis Grant.

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