Kelly Sherrod Rawls

On Saturday, July 22, 2006, God wrapped his arms around Kelly Sherrod Rawls, and took him to reside with Him in heaven. Kelly had been critically ill for two months preceding his death. Born in Robersonville, N.C., on October 9, 1930, Kelly's parents were Kelly and Leona Rawls. After graduating from Robersonville High School in 1948, Kelly attended Edwards Military Institute before transferring to, and graduating from Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, N.C. He began his career in Richmond 54 years ago, working first at Colonial Store, then at Watkins-Cottrell Hardware Supply, and finally at Hannaford and Kroger grocery stores. Kelly is survived by his sister, Delphia Rawls Hedgepeth; and his brother-in-law, Don of Yorktown, Va. Also surviving are nieces, Donna Kuppers of Baltimore, Denyse Harris and Kelly Allmon of Yorktown. Others left to cherish the memories of "Uncle Sherrod" are great-nieces and nephews, Hansy and Ashleigh Kuppers, and James and Caroline Allmon; and finally, Spotsy, his faithful and beloved cat. Kelly had no aquaintances and no enemies. Everyone he met became his friend. He spent his days trying to do for others. As someone remarked when the Queen Mother died, "You can cry because she died or you can smile because she lived". Those who knew Kelly are smiling through their tears. Kelly was a faithful member of Gayton Road Christian Church, and sang in the choir. Earlier, he was a member of Hanover Avenue Christian Church, serving as a deacon and choir member. He made service the centerpiece of his life, volunteering for many years at Telecare, at Richmond Memorial Hospital, and more recently at St. Mary's Hospital and Beth Sholom Woods, where he resided. His ready smile, friendly handshake and genuine interest in everyone he met will be his legacy. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 24, at the West Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 11020 West Broad St. A funeral service will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 25, at Gayton Road Christian Church. Another service will take place 4 p.m. at First Christian Church in Robersonville, N.C. Burial will follow at Robersonville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gayton Road Christian Church, 12050 Ridgefield Pkwy., Richmond, Va. 23233 or First Christian Church, Robersonville, N.C. 27871.