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Obituary For Col. Kelly Arthur Levell Porter Sr. (Ret)
Service will be held Friday April 10, 2026 at Bethlehem Baptist Church 7836 Fordson Rd, Alexandria, VA 22306
Visitation 10:00 am
Funeral Service 11:00am
Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a Later date and time.
Colonel Kelly Arthur Levell Porter, Sr. (Ret.)
May 24, 1935 – February 22, 2026
Colonel Kelly Arthur Levell Porter, Sr. (Ret.), a devoted family man, decorated veteran, and devout Christian, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 22, 2026. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Flossie Mae and Reverend Kelly Porter, COL Porter’s life was defined by steadfast faith, dedicated service, and unwavering love for his family.
A proud Hampton University graduate and member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., COL Porter commissioned as an Army infantry officer, serving nearly three decades with distinction including two combat tours in Vietnam and a tenure at the Pentagon. He earned the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, and numerous other honors, recognized as a “Soldier’s Soldier” who led with courage, wisdom, and integrity.
Following his military career, COL Porter continued to serve his country at Northrop Grumman for over 25 years, mentoring colleagues and advancing national security initiatives. Beyond his professional accomplishments, his greatest joy was his family. He and his beloved wife, Shirley, shared 69 years of marriage, raising children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grounded in love and faith. Even in her passing, Shirley’s love remained his guiding light.
A man of quiet joy and enduring kindness, COL Porter treasured Sunday worship, family gatherings, gospel music, reading, and cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs. His calming presence, gentle humor, and devotion to others touched all who knew him. He is survived by his sons, Kelly A. L. Porter, Jr. and Terence Porter; granddaughters Keyana Porter, D’Chae Womack, Terri Womack, and Teara Porter; great-grandchildren Zoey Mendoza and Casey Womack; sister Deborah Sands; in-laws Patricia Scott (James), Ron Johnson, Brenda Enoch; niece LaTonya Fisher (Gene); goddaughters Terri Harden and Toni Ragland; close family friend Carolyn Butler; and a host of cherished family, friends, fraternity brothers, and fellow veterans.
COL Porter will be interred with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, where his life of faithful service to God, family, and country will be eternally remembered.
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Condolences to the family of Col Kelly Porter , from a daughter of your friend Paul Nixon.
I had fond memories of Kelly at Hampton. Kn owing him like all Hamptonians has been an inspiration in my life. Rest in peace my brother
Elaine and I extend our sincerest sympathy and condolences for his family and friends. We have many memories of our days together at Hampton, his gregarious spirit was contagious. Rest in peace dear friend.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
