WILMINGTON — John “Snakeman” Vance Kelly, 89, of Wilmington, NC, passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on April 8, 1937, in Orange County, TX, to the late John Marvin Kelly and the late Linnie Brown Kelly.
John loved spending time outdoors, where he enjoyed fishing and hunting snakes. He also had a love for woodworking and enjoyed creating things with his hands. John was a wonderful storyteller and loved sharing stories about his family and their history. He was the family historian, making sure the stories and memories were never forgotten.
John is survived by his daughter, Sandra Kelly Barton, and husband Sam; his daughter in law, Cheryl Ann Kelly, his grandchildren, Jason Kelly and wife, Amanda; Damion Hancock and wife, Erin, Brittany Peterson and husband, Keith, Skylar Barton; and his great grandchildren, Brandon Kelly and fiancée, Hanna; Drew Kelly, JoJo Hancock, Addy Peterson; and a slew of nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, John was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Josephine DeVane Kelly; his son, Elmer Darrell Kelly; his brothers, Houston Kelly, Junior Kelly, Allen Kelly; his sisters, Katie Pridgen, Mary White, Martha Russell.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
