This isn’t the post I’d planned to share today. I consider it a blessing that I was able to write stories about Belle Meade Plantation here in Nashville, and today at Belle Meade we’ll be celebrating the life of a man who was very instrumental in me writing those stories.
Alton Kelley, the former President of the Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery, died December 2 after a brief illness at the age of 63 (glioblastoma). Here is Alton’s obiturary that so captures the man—and lover of story and history—that he was. And still is, on the other side of eternity.
As I told Alton’s wife Sheree, I’ve never read an obituary that so wonderfully portrays who that person was in this life on earth. Alton lived a very full life in his 63 years!
I’m so grateful God crossed my path with Alton and Sheree, not only in writing the Belle Meade novels, but just on this earthly journey. And since we’re brother and sisters in Christ, that journey has only begun!
Later today, I’ll return to this post and share some pictures I’ll take from Belle Meade. It always stirs my heart to visit that place, especially the Old Harding Cabin where Uncle Bob, an enslaved man at Belle Meade and a true hero in his own right, lived. Alton was passionate about keeping real history alive and was profoundly instrumental in bringing to light the histories of slaves who lived and worked at Belle Meade, which definitely helped me write the Belle Meade stories with more authenticity.
Learn more about Belle Meade’s real history…
Blessings on your day, friends, and please be in prayer for Alton’s wife Sheree and their two grown sons and their families as we gather with them today to celebrate Alton’s life—but far more, to celebrate the great God and Eternal King Jesus who Alton loved and longed for.
Much love from Nashville,
Tammy
Here are some pictures I snapped at Belle Meade as I walked around following the celebration service for Alton, which was beautiful. Sheree his wife spoke with such grace and love. God was glorified at every turn!
Pay it forward . . .
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Tamera Alexander
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I’m so sorry for the loss of your friend, Tammy. He sounds like a fascinating man. I’m praying for his wife, family, and all who knew him (including you) as you remember him and celebrate his life.
What a blessing that we have the hope of Heaven – – such a glorious reunion that will be!
Love and Gentle Hugs, Patti Jo
I’m so sorry, Tammy. Yet so grateful for the incredible reunion that awaits Alton’s family. Oh, the hope we have in Christ! How does anyone navigate life without it?! My heart is broken for his family and friends. Praying they feel God’s very real presence in their lives in miraculous ways in the days and months to come.
I’m so sorry, Tammy. What a joy for you to get to know him in this life and to look forward to meeting again in eternity. Hugs!
Praying for his family and friends.
Thank you, everyone! Alton was well celebrated today, and God was glorified and lifted high. It was a rainy and beautiful day at Belle Meade. Overcast skies at first, but the brilliant blue showed through. I’m posting some pics now. So appreciate your prayers for the family especially.
My condolences and prayers are with you and the Belle Meade family. Through your books, I feel as though I know them and know that they are also your family in love. God bless.
What a sweet tribute to a wonderful man! I know you’ll look forward to your heavenly reunion! And imagine how he’ll feel, looking down to see how his investment of time into your work is blessings hearts and changing lives. 🙂
Thanks for those kind words, Angie. Much love!
My condolences to you on the passing of your dear friend. We lost my sister to glioblastoma three years ago, she was 61. A hideous form of cancer. I pray for Alton’s family, knowing that the Lord will fill their hearts with comfort and blessings if they turn to Him. Thank you for sharing this man’s story and his importance in your life.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Hilda. And for what your sister suffered, and at so young an age. The Kelley family is definitely leaning into their Lord and Savior, and I know he will sustain them. As he does us all. Much love to you!