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Forrest (Pat) Ira Kelly Jr.

Forrest (Pat) Ira Kelly Jr. passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025, in Shelby, North Carolina, at the age of 90.

Born in Goldsboro, NC, on January 25, 1935, Pat was the son of the late Forrest Ira Kelly Sr. and Lucille Buchanan Kelly. He was raised in Sumter, SC, where he was educated in the public school system before going on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Clemson University. His passion for learning and dedication to his field led him to pursue a Master's degree in Engineering from Virginia Tech.

Pat spent his entire professional career with PPG Industries in Pittsburgh, PA, where he was respected not only for his technical skill but also for his integrity and work ethic.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathleen Sink Kelly, and his second wife, Maxine Kelly. He was also preceded by his sisters, Barbara Dawkins and MaryAnn Kelly, and his brother, Mike Kelly.

Pat is survived by his four daughters, Carol Adams, Lisa Houser, Teresa White, and Susan Wilson; and by his cherished grandchildren: Charles White III, Cameron Kelly, Brittney Blanton, Patrick Houser, TK Wilson, and Dalton Wilson.

A proud and passionate Clemson Tiger, Pat was a loyal member of IPTAY and spent many joyful weekends on camping trips and at football games with fellow classmates and friends. His love for Clemson was a lifelong source of connection and celebration.

Pat was also a dedicated member of the Friendship Masonic Lodge #388 A.F. & A.M., where he formed lasting friendships and upheld the values of service, fellowship, and brotherhood.

He will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his sharp mind, his love of tradition, and his enduring sense of humor. Pat's legacy is one of strength, loyalty, and deep love for those he held close.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate his life will be 11:00 AM Friday, October 3rd in the chapel of Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home with Rev. Keith Dixon officiating.The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Burial with Masonic Rites will be held immediately following the service at Cleveland Memorial Park

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to: Boiling Springs Baptist Church P.O. Box 917 Boiling Springs, NC 28017


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