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TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF BRIAN FRANCIS KELLEY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Brian Francis Kelley on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at the age of forty-two; and
Whereas, Brian was born in Poughkeepsie, New York on June 3, 1974, a son of Eugene Francis Kelley and Regina McKenna Kelley. In 1992, Brian moved to South Carolina to attend Francis Marion University, where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha, president of the Student Government Association, and an intramural golfer. He graduated in 1996 with a degree in economics and political science. Brian later earned a Cooperative Financial Professional Certificate and Management Internship Program Certificate from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association; and
Whereas, in 1996, Brian began his career at Pee Dee Electric Cooperative, Inc., where he worked as an industrial/commercial marketing representative, chief administrative officer, vice president of marketing, vice president of member service, and ultimately president and CEO. A forward thinker and knowledgeable businessman, Brian was both well liked and well respected within the company. Brian also worked for global packaging company Sonoco Products Co.; and
Whereas, Brian was also a strong, passionate leader in the Florence community. He served on multiple boards, including the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, Florence County Economic Development Partnership, Florence Regional Arts Alliance, Florence Career Center Advisory Committee, and Florence Education and Economic Development Task Force, and was a member of the Florence Rotary Club. With his community-minded outlook and passion for people, Brian was able to connect with people across all age groups and business platforms; and
Whereas, Brian served on the Francis Marion University Alumni Association Board of Directors, with two terms as president. In 2016, the Alumni Association honored him with a Professional Achievement Award in Business and Industry. Brian was a member of Central Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. Board, Cooperative Electric Energy Utility Supply and Line Equipment Sales Board, Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina, Statewide Manager's Association, South Carolina Power Team, McLeod Fellows, Pee Dee Regional Education Center, and Beta Gamma Sigma; and
Whereas, Brian was preceded in death by his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Donnie and Janice Helms; and
Whereas, Brian leaves to cherish his memory his wife of eighteen years, Deborah Helms Kelley; parents, Eugene Francis Kelley and Regina McKenna Kelley; brother, Thomas Eugene (Crystal) Kelley; brothers-in-law, Daniel (Jennifer) Helms and Donald (Jessica) Helms; step mother-in-law, Debbie Helms; aunts, Brenda Vermillion and Jean (Hugh) Leatherman; cousin, Shaun (Stacy) McKenna, and her son, Shane; nieces and nephews, Kyla Kelley, Griffin Kelley, Stella Helms, Heartlee Helms, and Deaven Helms; and a large extended family. He will be missed. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate:
That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Brian Francis Kelley and extend their deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Deborah Helms Kelley.
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