Charles Joseph "Chuck" Kelley

Charles Joseph “Chuck” Kelley, of Florence, Alabama, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 61 years old. Raised in Russellville, Chuck made a lasting home in Florence, where he became a deeply respected attorney, a devoted family man, and a beloved friend to many.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 Noon at Highland Baptist Church. The funeral service will begin at 12:00 Noon at the church with Rev. Dr. John Brock officiating. Burial will follow in Greenview Memorial Park.

Chuck was preceded in death by his father, B.J. Kelley. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kelly; his mother, Carolyn Young Kelley; his children, Alex (Genevieve), Sarah (Taylor), and Charlie (Mary Catherine); his cherished grandchildren, Madeline, Jack, Virginia, Harrison, Thomas, and Caroline; his sisters, Kim Nelson (Mark) and Kris Murphy (Tom); and a wide circle of family, friends, and colleagues whose lives he touched with kindness and humor.

A proud graduate of the University of Alabama (undergraduate and law school), he was Vice President of the Student Government Association, a devoted member and Vice President of Kappa Alpha Order, and member of Omicron Delta Kappa Honorary and Jasons. He remained an avid (to put it mildly) Bama fan all his life, attending countless games with family and friends.

Chuck practiced law for over 35 years, beginning in Birmingham before returning to the Shoals, where he served as President of the Lauderdale County Bar Association. Outside of the courtroom, he was an active member of the Rotary Club and served as a deacon at Highland Baptist Church and later at its Broadway campus. Chuck loved Jesus deeply and lived his life guided by his faith. Today, we find comfort in knowing he is celebrating in heaven, fully healed and at peace.

Chuck found deep meaning in his relationships. He had a rare gift for connection—maintaining friendships from all phases of his life, remembering details of people’s lives, and offering a helping hand or a word of wit just when it was needed. Most importantly, he loved his family deeply and was immensely proud of them.

With a sharp sense of humor and magnetic charm, Chuck brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He loved music—especially Southern rock and the Eagles—and he could often be found in his workshop creating beautiful handmade furniture, fixing things around the house, or hunting and enjoying the peace of nature. The last five years of his life were spent at his favorite place on the lake, where he treasured campfires, boat rides and sunset swims.

Memorials may be made to the ALS Treatment Center of Excellence at Crestwood Medical Center. The family expresses heartfelt thanks to the compassionate care team there, especially Sherry Kolodziejczak and Dr. David White, and to his caregivers: Ron DiNella, Karen Spence, Sarah Jones, and Pam Barnett. The family is also immensely indebted to Amy Miller, Chuck’s secretary/paralegal (aka Chuck’s boss) of almost 30 years. The pallbearers for the services will be Stratt Byars, Dell Cross, Ralph Holt, William King, John Riley Meek, Andrew Murphy, Tom Murphy, and Mark Nelson.

Chuck's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering generosity. He will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing him.

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