Rev. Dr. James M. Kelly

James Munlyn Kelly was a native of Mobile, Alabama. He served as a member of the U.S. Air Force and retired having served 20 years. His military career brought him to Panama City, Florida as he was stationed at Tyndall A.F.B.

On January 24, 1970, Pastor Wiley McQueen, Sr. would officiate the wedding of James and Margie at Brown Temple F.B.C.

Bishop James Kelly was leader of the Free Spirit Singers, established in 1974, and founded Free Spirit Community Church in 1986. He earned an AA degree in social work from Gulf Coast Community College, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Beacon University.

Over the years Bishop Kelly has conducted trainings & job fairs to help People better themselves; volunteered for countless community organizations, events and served as a board member for various committees.

He was very involved in outreach missions to Haiti. He has taught and mentored in Bay District Schools; ran for public office; and had a strong desire to make a major contribution to the African-American Community.

He served as an Overseer of other churches and pastors in ministry, and was the founder of the Agape Fellowship of Independent Pastors (AFIP).

Bishop James Kelly is preceded in death by Maudene “Margie” Kelly (wife of 49 years), Raymond B. Kelly (son), Charlie Kelly, Jr. (father), Annie M. Kelly (mother), Vergie Mae Powell (sister), Louis Power (brother), John Tyler Power (brother), Christopher White (nephew).

He leaves to mourn; Darrell D. Kelly (son), Angela Kelly (daughter-in-law), Zuri Kelly (Granddaughter), Curtis Peavy (sister), Jimmy Peavy, Jr. (nephew), Clayton & Annissa Peavy - nephew, Laverne Peavy (niece), Michael Peavy (nephew), Queen Spriggs (sister-in-law), Ginger & Alan Pattee - niece,
Nigeria & Jason Stahl (Jordan, Jackson) -niece, Sam Epps Sr. (Sam Jr., Brianna) -nephew, Kathy & Dwayne Thomas (Nikki, Kelli, Jerret) -niece, Zac & Lisa White – nephew.

Others left to mourn are God-children, nephews, nieces, Faithful Friends, and Sons & Daughters in the Faith both near and far.

In Leu of flowers, the Kelly Family request a donation to the “Raymond B. Kelly Memorial Scholarship.” Visit Free Spirit Community Church Facebook Page for details.

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