Michael “Mike” Larry Kelley, age 76, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, surrounded by his family who loved and adored him.

Mike was born on September 4, 1949, in Nashville, Tennessee, to John and Ina Kelley. He spent his life devoted to his country, his family, his dogs, rock and roll music, and Little Debbies.

He honorably served this country from August 1979 to September 2009, concluding a distinguished career with his retirement as Chief Master Sergeant in the Air National Guard. Among his leadership roles, he served as the full-time Superintendent of the 118th Aerial Port Squadron at Berry Field in Nashville, Tennessee.

Mike was a steady presence, known for his kindness, quiet strength, charming grumpiness, and unwavering love and commitment to those in his life. He never met a stranger. It is true that even the mailman would come inside to chat with him for hours on end. Mike will be remembered as being voted best drummer in Nashville, never missing a ballgame, and being an exceptional father and Papa Mike.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Helen; his daughters, Tiffany Ferguson (Chris) and Tanya Wray (Lance); his grandchildren, Drew, Emma, Davis, Lily, Dylan, Ava, and Lance Jr.; and his brother and sister, Edward Kelley and Pat Gober. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Long Hollow Baptist Church, with a brief visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will be held from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Hendersonville Memory Gardens, Funeral Home & Cremation Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9851 in Mike’s memory:

VFW Post 9851

73 New Shackle Island Rd.

Hendersonville, TN 37075