The origin of The Kelleys goes back a long way. Brenda (mom) began singing
in church with her two sisters at the age of three. Over the years, there was
always a deep desire to sing the gospel in her heart. She sang with a number
of different groups before her marriage to Robert Kelley in 1970.
After Kevin and Lori came along, they always had a love for music and singing.
Lori was a natural lead singer and Kevin automatically went to tenor. For
many years they sang in church services, revivals, and camp meetings where
dad, Robert Kelley, was preaching.
In the early 1990's, a local promoter had them sing on their
church's radio program. He asked them to do a concert and in time the group
has become dear to local fans. The past few years have been rewarding for
the Kelleys. Recently, they have signed on the Morningstar/Signature Label
in Nashville, TN and have just marketed their 8th recording.
Lori Kelley Woods
Most of what we sing comes from the pen of Lori Kelley Woods. "I'm One Of
Them" sung by the Dixie Melody Boys, "Beautiful Day" by The Dunaways, "You
Are Here" by The Ruppes and Ivan Parker's "The Stone Has Not Moved" are just a
few samples of Lori's talented writing. In addition to writing, she is the
lead singer for The Kelleys. When she isn't writing songs or singing them,
Lori enjoys teaching English at Denbigh High School in Newport News, VA,
where she lives with her husband, Jeff, and cats Nelson and Wilson.
Craig Parry
The role of 1st tenor is sung by Craig, who also helps run the sound for the
group. He lives in Portsmouth, VA and is part of the pastoral staff of his
church in Suffolk, VA. He started with the Kelley's playing bass and moved
to singing upon the relocation of group members Kevin and Erica Kelley to
Phoenix, Arizona.
Brenda Kelley
Brenda, who sings the alto part for the group, is affectionately know as
"Momma Kelley" to gospel music fans. She has a variety of hats she wears
on a weekly basis. She is a pastors wife, being married to Robert Kelley
for over 30 years, and mom to group members Kevin and Lori.
Most of all, she loves to travel and spread the gospel in song. She is
known for giving great advice on writing and arranging music, usually
saying, "The thing that would make this song work is to speed it up!"
Kevin and Erica Kelley
Kevin and Erica have been unable to travel with the group since their move
to Phoenix, Arizona. They continue to assist with the group by maintaining
"The Kelley's" website updates. They have welcomed their first child
Samuel into the family on October 30, 2007. If you haven't seen a picture,
please ask "Grammy or Grandpa" Kelley. Kevin is working with Anderson
Merchandisers in Wal-Mart stores and Erica is a stay at home mom. They
have started a home based travel business where you can book flights, cruises,
hotels, car rentals, and so much more at www.kelleyadventures.com .
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