Gerlean Patricia Kelly, a cherished sister, devoted mother and grandmother, faithful servant of God, and beloved friend, was born on December 10, 1949, in Conway, South Carolina, to the late James and Allean Roberts. She peacefully transitioned on August 1, 2025, in Dillon, South Carolina. Gerlean’s radiant presence and compassionate spirit left a mark on everyone she met. Her smile lit up any room, and her warmth brought comfort and joy. A natural nurturer, she touched many lives with her unwavering love and deep faith. She embraced Christ early and was a dedicated member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, where she joyfully participated in Bible Study, Worship, and Evangelism. She married the late Sam N. Kelly, and together they built a life centered on love, family, and faith. Gerlean was preceded in death by her husband, Sam N. Kelly; her parents, James and Allean Roberts; her son, Henry O. Kelly (Tashema); grandsons, Emmit Kelly and Jamil E. Kelly; brothers, James Edward Roberts, Winford Roberts (Deloris), and John Roberts; and sisters, Vernell D. Siegel, Rose M. Jackson, and Minister Ernestine McCullough (Jackie). She is survived by her daughter, Deborah J. Moore of Marion, SC; grandchildren, Phillip Kelly (Mary) of Lagoons, Germany, Shakira M. Ceasar (Bernard) of Columbia, SC, Timellia Johnson of Atlanta, GA, Mahogany J. Kelly of Bucksport, SC, Wallace D. Moore of Marion, SC, and Dajuan P. Moore of Atlanta, GA. Her great-grandchildren are Kamron Ceasar, Brayden Ceasar, Landon Kelly, Alarick Kelly, Armonie Kelly, Kyree Kelly, Cairo Ceasar, and Althea Kelly. Her legacy continues through her sisters, Bernice Powell (Arthur) of Conway, SC, Earlean Williams of Conway, SC, and Joyce A. Hamlin (Roy) of Florence, SC, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Gerlean Patricia Kelly will be remembered for her steadfast faith, unconditional love, and the joy she brought to every heart she touched. Her life was a testament to grace, strength, and belief. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
The viewing will be held Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, at Latimer’s Funeral Home from 2–6 PM.
The funeral will be held Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025, at Friendship MBC at 3 PM. Burial will follow in Owens Cemetery in Bucksport, SC.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.
To send flowers
to the family, please visit our floral store.