Francis Kellems

Derby, Indiana Francis B. Kellems, 94, passed away on July 16, 2021 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born in Tell City on July 21, 1926 to Maggie (Damin) and Eunice Patrick Kellems. At the age of 17, Francis enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. In early 1945, he and other Hubbard crew accompanied other destroyer escorts in sinking German sub U-248. It was an experience that Francis vividly remembered and shared his memories of it with many. He was a member of the first Southern Indiana Honor Guard Flight and was proud to have represented his country as he was so proud of his time in the Navy. Francis continued his devotion to his country by having membership in Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2939 and American Legion Post #213, serving in both of their funeral details until he was no longer able to do so. He was also a member of 40 & 8. Francis loved being at home and working on his property where he had Limousin cattle, a sawmill and was particularly fond of his two horses, Tinkerbell and Gypsy Mae. He enjoyed taking drives around Perry County, remembering and sharing stories down each different county road. He loved to dance, specifically to "Rocky Top Tennessee". Francis was united in marriage on January 29, 1969, to Mary "Jane" (White) Snyder where he inherited a wonderful extended family who loved him as if he were their own. Watching those children grow up brought him much joy. His devout Catholic faith was of utmost importance to him. He belonged to St. Augustine Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus. He is survived by his sister, Sarah Overstreet; a brother, Archie Kellems; several nieces and nephews that include, Ken Overstreet (Bernie), Tommy Overstreet (Melissa) and Brittany Kirchgessner (Gage), great nieces and nephews, who helped care for him; his extended family that include step children, Mary Leisner-Cronin, Ruby Yoakum and Betty Bryant-Cleveland; step grandchildren, Omer Bryant, Jr. (Michele), Rodney Bryant (Lisa) , David Bryant (Greta), Lisa Leisner, James Yoakum (Linda), Jennifer Bobay, Tammy Snyder, Brian Snyder and Brad Snyder; many step great and great-great grandchildren and very special neighbors, Randall Sandage and Joe Deom. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Jane Kellems; step son, Bill Snyder; a sister, Bernice Ford; brothers, Luke, Ernest, Harry and Dennis Kellems and a step grandson, Britt Leisner. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM CDT on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Rev. Brian Esarey officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery in Derby with military rites conducted by the VFW Post #2939. Visitation will be held on Monday from 3:00-6:30 PM, with a Rosary being said at 6:30 PM and Tuesday 9:00--10:15 AM at Huber Funeral Home, Tell City Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Augustine Catholic Church Maintenance Fund or St. Mary Cemetery in Derby.