Terrance O. Kelly

Hailing from a large and loving family, Terrance Oliver Kelly was born to Ola Mae Kelly (deceased) and Wesley Kelly (of Jamaica) on July 13, 1965. He had six brothers and four sisters, including Duane of Virginia and Cordela of Jamaica, who preceded him in death. He is survived by siblings Mairiam, Sherita, Adyna, Michelle, Maurice, Michael, Leslie, Curtis and Wesley, Step-Mother Loris; along with six nieces, five nephews, six great nieces, five great nephews, one great-great niece and one great-great nephew. He also had an extensive Atlanta family, including his spiritual sisters, Joyce Fajr Wilburn, Tomika DePriest, two nieces Akilah Najuwa and Dajarae George.

Terrance first stomped the yard of Morehouse College in 1985. His easy smile and warm spirit could be felt whenever you were in his presence. From the onset, Terrance loved people just as long as they did not stop by unannounced. The intrusion could be overlooked if you came bearing food, but even then your time was limited. Coined as the ultimate ‘Wordsmith’, Terrance received his B.A. in English from Morehouse College 1990, M.A. in African American Studies Clark Atlanta University 1992 and a semester away from receiving his PhD from Georgia State University. Terrance received his Journalism training at The Pointer Institute for Media Studies in 1991.

From conducting research for Atlanta Journal Constitution, cataloging books for Atlanta-Fulton Public Library to freelance writing for Upscale Magazine, The Champion Newspaper and other publications, Terrance was an extraordinary English Crusader. He lived his life by setting an example through teaching. He continued his career and expressed his love for inspiring people by teaching in the Atlanta Public Schools, Fulton County Schools, Clark Atlanta University and Atlanta Metropolitan College. His passion and love for his students were expressed through his yellow highlighter and red pen as he critiqued their written masterpieces. In essence, Terrance never allowed you to settle for second best, he pushed you to your full potential by offering encouraging words and gestures.

Terrance was a true lover of savory food and soulful music. Even though he could not carry a tune in a bucket, he was notorious for carrying an Anita Baker song classic in his backpack. To know ‘T.’, you would know that Marvin Gaye was also a big influence in his life. In the words of Marvin Gaye and Mr. Terrance Kelly, “Here My Dear”....”Ummm, too much, all at once!”

“I will lie down and sleep in peace…” Psalm 4:8