The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) has shared the sad news of Eddie Kelley’s passing on May 23.
Kelley, 66, was serving as the league’s Coordinator of Football Officials.
He had a long and respected career in football officiating and administration.
Further, he worked as a head referee for ten years before being appointed coordinator in 2019.
Kelley also officiated in other major conferences throughout college football, including the Southland in 2012 and the PAC-12 in 2017.
SWAC expressed deep sympathy to Kelley’s family and friends, recognizing his important contributions to the conference and the many people he influenced through his work.
Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Eddie Kelley
Nephew Keith Brooks expressed sadness as he said goodbye to his uncle, Eddie Kelley. He shared that Eddie, his mother’s brother, will be truly missed.
Keith closed his message with a heartfelt rest in peace.
It is with sadness in my heart to say farewell to my Moms brother my Uncle “Eddie Kelley. “Unk you will truly be missed. R.I.P
Keith Brooks
Similarly, Anne Daily shared that it was heartbreaking for everyone who knew Coach Eddie Kelley.
According to Anne, Eddie suffered a heart attack over the weekend and passed away on the morning of May 23.
Anne described Eddie as a longtime Spring Woods Middle School teacher and a truly kind, easygoing, and fun-loving person.
After retiring a few years ago, Eddie continued his passion for football officiating with the same dedication he showed throughout his life.
Anne sent prayers and comfort to Eddie’s wife, Yolanda Black Kelley, daughters, and all the teachers and coaches who knew him.
This is a sad, sad day in Spring Branch Health Fitness history. I am sorry to pass along the passing of Coach Eddie Kelley. Eddie was a long time, well like, fantastic human being who taught at Spring Woods Middle School for years and retired a few years ago to continue his football officiating. From my understanding, Eddie had a heart attack this past weekend and passed away this morning. Sending prayers and hugs for comfort to his wife and daughters and all the teachers and coaches that knew him!
Anne Daily
Eddie was one of the nicest, easy going, fun loving, hard working individuals to be around and work along side of. I am not sure I ever saw him without a smile on his face! Eddie, we love you and you will be missed more then you will ever know! You can’t not hear his voice when you say his name! Get those track meets going in heaven, Eddie! RIP, my friend!
Moreover, his student Ciara Shaneice recalled how Coach Kelley was tough but caring, knew her well, and pushed her hard in sports.
He called her “Ce Dawg” because she used to get so upset that she cried after losing games.
Ciara said she is crying because of the loss and emphasized how much she will miss him, calling him the best coach in the world.
She ended her message with love and wished him rest in peace.
Yeah I’m crying because this man didn’t play about me. Knew me before I knew him and pushed me hard when it came to sports. Coach Kelley you hurt me with this. He gave me the nickname “Ce Dawg” cause I used to be so mad I’d cry when we lost a game. You will truly be missed 💕💜 Rest in Peace to the best COACH IN THE WORLD!
Ciara Shaneice
