Kelsie Ray Calhoun

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. -Romans 8:28

Kelsie Ray Calhoun, 83, Kingsport, made his flight to heaven on Thursday, October 21, 2010, following a brief illness.

A native of Hawkins County, he had lived in this area all his life. Kelsie joined Tennessee Eastman Company for a brief time before answering the call to service in the U. S. Air Force during World War II. Upon return from active duty, he went back to TEC and retired as foreman of the Storeroom with a combined service of over 40 years.

Kelsie was a member of Fellowship Free Will Baptist Church where he served as an usher.

He had many hobbies including golf and was a member of the Crossings. Kelsie also enjoyed fishing and working in his yard.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Billie Glass Calhoun; parents, Ray and Ruby Calhoun; sister, Norma Draughn; and daughter-in-law, Rita Calhoun.

Surviving are his wife, Lula Parker Calhoun; son, Randy Calhoun, Southern Pines, NC; stepson, Darrell Parker and wife Glenna of Kingsport; grandson, Jake Calhoun; step-granddaughter, Rachel Farris; three step-grandsons, Chris Parker and wife Mary, Brian Parker, and Jonathan Parker and wife Traci; brother, Frank Calhoun and wife Maude, Atlanta, GA; two sisters, Juanita Martin and husband Roy, Mount Carmel and Betty Dial of Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Fellowship Free Will Baptist Church / 2313 Portland Ave. / Kingsport, TN 37660. Services will follow at 7 p.m. at the church with Pastor Jeff Davis officiating.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Randy Holland, Jake Calhoun, Jonathan Parker, Robby Ward, Jeff Bailey, Joel Bailey, Philip Bailey, and Devin Ward.

Honorary pallbearers will be the Men's Bible Class of Fellowship Free Will Baptist Church.