Buford “Claude” Kelly

Posted on March 14, 2018

Buford “Claude” Kelly, of Perry, died Saturday, March 10, 2018. Claude was born March 7, 1942, to Buford and Dorothy Louise Kelly in Quincy.

Claude grew up in Woodville and he graduated from Leon County High School. While in school he earned the title of an Eagle Scout. He held a steady job from a very young age. After Claude finished school he worked in the postal service for the next 32 years. During his time with the postal service he also operated a farm, where he grew broiler chickens and row crops. Claude was the Postmaster in Perry for the last 17 years of his career and received “Postmaster of the Year” on several occasions. He was ordained as a minister in 1976 and took many mission trips. He also helped build a church in Tallahassee. Later, Claude served as the Adult Sunday School teacher at New Home Baptist Church for several years.

Claude had many hobbies that he took great pride in. He enjoyed watching and playing baseball. As a young man, Claude played for the Tri-State minor baseball league, and played on a church league softball in Perry. After retirement he became a commercial fisherman, where he earned the title of a Merchant Marine Master Captain. He enjoyed success with fox hunting competitions and enjoyed gardening — especially tomatoes. Claude loved to cook and was known by many for his skills in smoking just about anything. He enjoyed serving his children and grandchildren and shared his beloved hobbies with all of his family, including taking them on many excursions on the water.

Claude is survived by: his wife of 34 years, Mildred Worley Kelly; four sons, Ritchie (Tracey), Claude Jr., Scott (Julie) and Jason (Sheri); one stepson, Joe (Kathy); two stepdaughters, Georgia (Blake) and Becky (Matt); 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Floyd Lamar Kelly.

Claude was preceded in death by: both parents; and a sister, Sally.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 13, in the Burns Memorial Chapel in Perry. Interment followed in Walker Cemetery in Madison County. The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Monday, March 12, at Burns Funeral Home of Perry. All arrangements are under the care of Burns Funeral Home.

Friends may send condolences to the family at www.joepburnsfuneralhomes.com