Dec 5

Dec 5 A Community Mourns the Loss of Apostle Derek Kelly: A Leader Anchored in Faith

Lying in State
Friday, December 12, 2025
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
New Faith Full Gospel Fellowship Center
402 Oak Avenue
Lexington, NC 27292

Community Legacy Celebration
Friday, December 12, 2025
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
New Zion Missionary Baptist Church
2785 Dunns Mountain Road
Salisbury, NC 28146
Pastor Patrick Jones, Senior Pastor

All clergy are respectfully asked to wear civic attire.

Official Homegoing Celebration of Life
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Great Commission Community Church
3733 Ogburn Avenue
Winston-Salem, NC 27105
Apostle Gloria Samuels, Senior Pastor

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM — Family Visitation
11:00 AM — Official Service

All Bishops and Clergy are asked to dress in choir attire.

By Thomas Martin Sr.

The foundation of our community has been shaken by the passing of a truly remarkable man and spiritual giant, Apostle Derek Kelly. The void left by his absence is immeasurable, but the impact of his life—a life dedicated entirely to selfless service—will echo in the hearts of those who knew him for generations to come. Apostle Kelly was not merely a figurehead; he was a steadfast leader whose very existence was anchored in an unwavering faith and rock-solid conviction that inspired everyone he met.

Apostle Kelly embodied a rare combination of excellence, humility, and burning passion in his service to the Kingdom. He served God with a fierce dedication that never sought the spotlight but consistently pointed others toward Christ. Whether from the pulpit or in quiet conversation, his words, his daily walk, and his powerful witness were synchronized, creating a living testament to the Gospel he preached. He didn't just talk about faith; he lived it, setting an impossibly high standard for leadership that was characterized by grace, truth, and tireless effort.

His ministry reached far beyond the hallowed walls of New Faith Full Gospel Fellowship Center. Apostle Kelly was, first and foremost, a proven mentor. He poured wisdom, compassion, and truth into countless lives, not just guiding people but genuinely investing in their futures. He understood that true community strength begins with developing individuals. This truth was most visible in his deep commitment to the next generation—the children he taught, guided, and inspired. He saw potential where others saw only youth, dedicating his time and energy to shaping young minds and equipping them with the spiritual and moral tools necessary to navigate the world. His legacy is not written in stone, but in the enduring spirit of every young soul he helped draw closer to God.

For many of us, the memories are vivid and personal. I can vividly recall attending services at New Faith Full Gospel Fellowship Center, sitting in awe as I heard his powerful, transformative sermons. His messages were always relevant, convicting, and delivered with an authority that could only come from a man truly submitted to his calling. I remember those moments shared with fellow leaders like Mr. Donnie Holt, and the camaraderie and purpose found within the Males Only Service Club, initiatives Apostle Kelly championed to build strong, godly men.

It is a testament to his character that even recently; while bearing his own immense responsibilities, Apostle Kelly was still focused on recognizing others. It was an honor to see him recognize the exemplary service of Mr. Donnie Holt and local barber and Gators President, Jessie Bowens, with community service awards. These acts of recognition underscore the depth of his commitment: a great leader is one who empowers and celebrates the service of others.

The processing of this tragedy has taken time, and the pain is deep for everyone touched by his light. As someone who lives around the corner from New Faith Full Gospel Fellowship Center, I have prayed a prayer every night for our community during this difficult time, knowing that we have lost an invaluable cornerstone.

My most heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, his children—Marcus Carpenter, Derius Kelly, and Charity Kelly—and the entire congregation. The comfort of his presence may be gone, but the strength, the wisdom, and the unconditional love he shared remains. May his family, friends, and the entire community find peace and solace during this difficult time, resting in the blessed hope of his enduring spiritual legacy.