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Kelly Sterlin Telford

7/26/1951 - 2/16/2024

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Obituary For Kelly Sterlin Telford

Virginia Beach- Kelly Sterlin Telford, 72, of Virginia Beach, VA passed away at home peacefully, surrounded by family on February 16th, 2024. He will be greatly missed by all. Kelly was a very strong and generous man, a fighter, competitive and the patriarch of our family. He was our protector, provider, and our covering. Originally from Ogden, Utah, then stationed in Norfolk, VA, Kelly married his beautiful high school sweetheart, Carol Rowell. It was love at first sight. Soon after he entered the Navy Reserves from 1969 to 1971, he later became a Lather construction apprentice. With the skills acquired as a Lather apprentice, he partnered up with friend, Robby Herrington to launch Tidewater Plastering & Drywall Co., Inc. The business was a great success as it is to this day, run by family. Kelly is survived by his beloved wife - Carol, siblings- Darrell, Matt, Melanie, Zonya & Gail, sons - Frank, Erik & Joe, daughters-in-law - Laura, Stephanie & Ashley, grandchildren - Christian, Sommer, Taylor, Rachel, Hailey, Hannah, Annabelle, Hunter, Bella, Cadence, Ava & Selah. Kelly was predeceased by his mother and step-father – Bill & Joyce Zwemke, father – Earl Telford, and brothers Mike & Gary Telford. Kelly loved to play golf, hunt, surf, and ski. He loved watching home videos, Sci-Fi, and old war movies. Kelly disliked the high seas with a passion therefore The Perfect Storm movie was forbidden to view. He was always the first one up and out the door for work and the last one home. Old school, tough, and the most generous loving family man, as he raised his sons to be. Please join us at Beach Fellowship Church, on Monday, March 4th at 2:00pm for a remembrance and eulogy service.

Simply Cremation is assisting his family. Please share memories and express condolences at SimplyCremationOnline.com

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  • 08/20/2024

    Phil Phillips

    I'm pretty sure that I was in the navy with Kelly. I say pretty sure because I'm not certain it isn't another Kelly Telford. 1969-70 were difficult years to be in the service. I know I had a tough time adjusting, it wasn't until after our Med cruise in 1970 that I finally adjusted. My last 3 years were much easier. Kelly left the ship mid cruise, I think his father died, he flew home, I don't ever remember him returning to the ship. He and I were both Radarmen. He was married so there was a limited amount of time we spent together, except during the cruise. You have my sympathy. I have fond memories of him, he was young (we both were) and the adjustment to military life drove us both to do slightly illegal and crazy things. I could tell stories but that would not be appropriate. I think it is wonderful that he stayed married all these years and that he started a business that is still operating. I suppose you don't realize how he touched others lives, people you never met or heard about. He was well liked on the ship, always smiling and easy going. He is in my prayers. Phil Phillips, Carroll, Iowa

  • 03/14/2024

    Ralph (Rat)Dean

    I worked for Kelly for a number of years. I have always had a lot of respect for him. So sorry for your loss. Ralph (Rat) Dean

  • 03/03/2024

    Chuck Hughson

    Carol, and family. I'm so sorry for your loss. Kelly was not only my brother in-law; he was a dear friend. I'll miss the special times we had together, even the times he beat me playing golf (he was so competitive). I always respected how much he loved and cared for his family... and others. I love Kelly and will miss him so. My deepest sympathies to all the Telford family. - Chuck

  • 02/29/2024

    Kay Hofler

    Dear Carol, Joey, Eric, and Frank, Richard and I are very sorry to hear about the loss of Kelly. We have such fond memories of life on Rosalie Court with all of your family. The boys had such a good time together. We always miss seeing you. Please know that we are thinking about you and wish you comfort in your time of sorrow. We send you our love and condolences. Richard and Kay

  • 02/28/2024

    I love you Kelly. So glad our family spent lots of loving times together. Your sister in law Angela

  • 02/27/2024

    Fisher Jeannie

    So sorry to hear about your loss of your husband, best friend and family man my prayers go out to you and your family.

  • 02/26/2024

    Carol Telford

    I will miss you everyday. You loved your friends and family and they loved you. Your Grandson Christian quit his job to take care of you. We appreciated his love and special care everyday. Your boys were here and helped in every way they could. Stephanie, Laura and Sommer & Taylor helped so much. Chuck our brother in law, took care of him I the hospital. I don't think he would have had the extra time with us without Chuck. The hospice nurses were the best and came over more than they had to to make sure he was clean and comfortable. Thank you all so much. God blessed us with such wonderful care that he passed in peace with no pain. God bless you all. Love Carol

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