Brooks Kelsey, Jr., 58 of West Point passed away suddenly on Monday, April 1, 2024, at Jewish Hospital.
Brooks was a Christian by faith. He worked for CSX as a track inspector. An avid outdoorsman, Brooks found solace in nature, whether he was in the woods waiting patiently or casting his line into tranquil waters, his connection to the outdoors was a source of peace and revitalization. He entered numerous fishing tournaments and was an infamous crappie whisperer. He built custom fishing rods and handcrafted jig baits. A positive role model for youth, he eagerly shared his time, knowledge, techniques, and enthusiasm with others. His passion for hunting and fishing became a cherished tradition passed down through generations. He was a skilled bowhunter and skeet shooter. Each Spring he transformed his land into an abundant garden, a lesson of hard work, reward, and self-sustenance. He was always up to date with the latest scores, stats, and news of his favorite team, the Boston Red Socks. Brooks was a devoted family man, a beacon of strength and unwavering support. He instilled a sense of respect, discipline, loyalty, and self-reliance within his children, values which are a true reflection of his character. He took great pride in watching his loved ones grow and thrive. He gained immense joy in being a father and grandfather. He had a great ability to make others smile and his sense of humor will be dearly missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents Wilma and Brooks Kelsey, Sr., and brother Lee Kelsey.
He is survived by the catch of his life and partner of 41 years, his loving wife Marsha Kelsey; children Jennifer Colwell (James) of Hillview, and Brooks JW Kelsey (Kalenia) of Ashland; adopted daughters Kara McCue and Bianca Ramirez both of Louisville; siblings Carol Daughtery (Dennis) and Larry Kelsey (Brenda) both of Louisville; grandchildren Michael and Avery Kelsey, Mikayla Durrett, Lyndsay and Haleigh Zimmerman, and Brookelynn Risen; great-grandchild D.J. Milliner; several nieces, nephews, and extended family members; his lifelong friends Ed and Denise Bloomer and Ed Adams, along with fisherman across the state.
The family has entrusted Maraman Billings Funeral Home with cremation services and will be hosting a celebration of a life well lived.
The Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 2-5 p.m. at Greenwood Boat Docks in Riverview Park (8202 Greenwood Road Louisville, KY 40258).
In lieu of flowers, the family request you consider donating to Brooks favorite charity. A collection of donations from the memorial will be given to support youth fishing tournaments.
Online condolences to the family may be made at maramanbillings.com
To order
memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Brooks Kelsey Jr., please visit our
flower store.