Roger Whitlock Kellis

Roger Whitlock Kellis, 95 of Charlotte, NC formerly of Candor, NC, passed away on the 8th of March, 2021 in Charlotte. Roger was born on the 14th of December, 1925 in Montgomery County, NC to the late Clyde Kellis and Sadye Whitlock Kellis. As a teenager, he helped his father on the peach farm. Upon graduation from Candor High School, he moved to Newport News, VA to work in the shipyards during World War II. While there, he was drafted into the United States Army, serving in the Philippines. After his Army discharge, Roger returned home and he and Rachel moved to Charlotte where they began their family and he started his career in the farm supply/pesticides business. In 1954, missing their family and friends in Candor, Roger and family returned to their roots. Roger was the owner and operator of Insect Control Sales and Service for 37 years until his retirement. Roger was a very gentle, caring and generous man, always doing for others and expecting nothing in return. He had a quick wit and loved to laugh and make others laugh as well. He really enjoyed people and was a good listener. He loved to travel and could be ready for a road trip at a moment’s notice. An avid Atlanta Braves fan, Roger was often in the stands with his family in Atlanta cheering them on. In later years, he never missed a game on television. Roger loved to garden and gladly shared freshly picked vegetables with everyone. He was so proud of his family and his small-town upbringing. He was very active in the community, serving as Chief for the Candor Volunteer Fire Department for 26 years. He was instrumental in the start up of a volunteer ambulance service, serving for 22 years. He also served on the local town and county planning boards for many years and was always willing to do whatever he could to make things better. He was a member of Candor Baptist Church for more than 40 years until he moved to Charlotte in 2016; serving as a Deacon, Trustee, Superintendent and faithful member. Roger is survived by his two loving daughters: Nancy Kellis Ott and husband, Frank of Albany, KY and Cindy Kellis of Charlotte, NC along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Rachel Lewis Kellis; a brother, Jerrold Kellis and a sister, Rosalie McNeill. He will be remembered for the firm handshake he retained throughout his life. He touched many lives, was loved by all and will be greatly missed. The family would like to thank his caregivers for their compassion. We would also like to thank Hospice & Palliative Care of Charlotte. The excellent care, support and love they gave to our father was remarkable and appreciated more than words can ever express. The family will gather for a graveside service on Saturday, the 13th of March, 2021 at the Candor Cemetery, Candor, NC with the Reverend Steve Jarman officiating. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date and will be announced. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the following or to a charity of your choice: Candor Baptist Church, P.O. Box 614, Candor, NC 27229, Candor Volunteer Fire Department, P.O Box 580, Candor, NC 27229 or to Hospice & Palliative Care, Charlotte Region, P.O. Box 470408, Charlotte, NC 28247.