On March 19, 2015, history was made. As the last day of Winter 2015 left us, so did the oldest World War II Veteran of St. Mary Parish, Mr. Harold Kelly, 92, born on Bayou Sorrel and a long time resident of Franklin, Louisiana, passed away with family at his bedside on March 19, 2015 hand-in-hand with his wife of 68 years. Harold was drafted into the United States Army in 1944, where he served in World War II as a Foot Soldier fighting in the 11th Army Division in Europe under General George S. Patton. After two years of service, he returned from the war and married the love of his life, Ruby Mae Sanders. They started their humble family on a camp boat in Keelboat Pass (Bayou Chene). Their family quickly grew, and he spent most of his time on the water as a Tugboat Captain and fishing every chance he could. He was a devoted husband and loving father, family was his passion, and he adored his grandkids. You'd often find him sitting by the bayou, baby in lap or tending his garden.
He is survived by his wife, Ruby Sanders Kelly; eight children: Martha Gilchrist and her husband Hubert; Lois Kelly; Cheryl Clines and her husband James; Carolyn Kelly; Harold J. Kelly and his wife Kim; Dariel G. Kelly; Nenia Albo; and Paula Migues and her husband Cory; one half-brother; John Pinkerman "J.P." Pearce; 20 doting grandchildren: Denisa, Rodney, Mona, Nona, Joseph, Cherie, Jay, Jordan, Jahleel, Kane, Bobby, Cody, Amber, William, Benjamin, Kellie, Melissa, Joey, Nenia, Jason; numerous great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and two four legged fur-kids: Molly and Sparky.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Charles Edward Kelley and Edmee Mendoza Kelley Pearce; one grandson: Hubert Gilchrist Jr., as well as 10 brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 26, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. at Ibert's Mortuary in Franklin and he will be laid to rest in Franklin Cemetery.