Mr. John Lewis Kelly, Jr., 73, of E. Franklin Street, Hartwell, Georgia passed away Tuesday, December 27, 2016.

Born on March 9, 1943 in Sanford, North Carolina, he was the son of the late John Lewis Kelly Sr. and Annie Kelly Moss.He was also preceded in death by his son John Kelly III.Survivors include his sister and brother-in-law Brenda and Jimmy Stone of Hartwell GA, son Paul Kelly of Hartwell GA, daughter and son-in-law Stefanie andMickey Poole of Nicholson GA, and daughter and son-in-law Nancy and Zack Doster of Watkinsville GA, daughter-in-law Michelle Kelly of Beaufort, SC, former wife Linda Dean of Colbert, GA, seven grandchildren: Krista Kelly, Bryan Dixon, Nolan Kelly, Alexandra Poole, Noah Doster, Hannah Poole and Grayson Doster; two great-grandchildren: Brooklynn Smith and Madilynn Kelly and his beloved dog: Ben.

Mr. Kelly was a native of Hartwell, GA.He graduated from Hart County High School where he was voted "Wittiest" by his senior class.After a long career in sales, he became a student again at the age of 55 and successfully graduated from Athens Technical College with a degree in Respiratory Therapy.He worked for 14 years as a Respiratory Therapist where he found his true passion was helping others.Lewis was known for his sense of humor and his giving spirit.

The family will receive friends Friday, December 30th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Strickland Funeral Home, 305 Cleveland Ave., Hartwell, GA.

Funeral services will be Saturday, December 31st at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home.Interment will take place at Nancy Hart Memorial Park.

Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.