Daughter of Mattie Kelly passes away

Virginia E. Kelly passed away May 14, 2008, after a long illness.

She will always be remembered by her family and friends as the most loving, caring, and giving person. She never met a stranger.
Virginia was born on July 12, 1934, in Crestview, Fla. She then moved to Destin, where she grew up and raised her family. With her husband, L. Bernarr Kelly, she raised their three children. In addition to her children she helped Mattie and Coleman Kelly raise their two youngest daughters, Carol and Cecilia.

Virginia was instrumental in building the Kelly business in Destin from the 1950s into the 1970s. Virginia and Bernarr established Bernarr Kelly Realty, Kelly-Walker Construction Co., and an insurance company that serviced the community. While working as a real estate agent, Virginia promoted and brokered the real estate deal between Dudley Rogers and Mattie Kelly that became Radio Station K-92.

In the early 1970s, her husband sustained a severe, nearly fatal head trauma. After her vigilance, night and day, she helped him through a miraculous week, which left amazed doctors stunned. Doctors believed that even if he maintained his vital signs he would most likely have suffered permanent injuries which would leave him incoherent at best. “Polly” never left his side for the next four months. Despite the odds, he regained his ability to walk, talk and resume a life with his dedicated wife. It would not have been possible without her strength and courage.

Virginia made many contributions throughout her life and she will leave behind a void that can never be filled. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Virginia is survived by her three children, Lowell Kelly, Brant Kelly and Elise Kelly McKenzie; six grandchildren, Jodie Kelly, Ryan Gordon, Amy Kelly, John Grady Gordon, Ivey Kelly and Claire McKenzie; and her sister, Audrey E. Gibson.

A graveside service will be held May 16 at 3 p.m. at Beal Memorial Cemetery. The service will be led by the Rev. Tracey Leggett and a reception will follow for family and friends in Destin. The location and time will be announced at the conclusion of the service.

Pledges and contributions can be made in memory of Virginia E. Kelly to the Destin YMCA, 4345 Commons Drive West, Destin, FL 32541. You may contact Carolyn Folley at (850) 837-8440.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McLaughlin Mortuary, 17 Chestnut Ave., Fort Walton Beach, Fla.