News Summary
The Vicksburg community is grieving the loss of two esteemed individuals, Bettye Jean Cooper Kelly and John W. Starnes Jr., who recently passed away. Bettye, a dedicated teacher, and John, a devoted Navy veteran, left lasting legacies of love and service. Their contributions to education, family, and faith will be cherished and remembered by many. Memorial services are being held to celebrate their lives.
Vicksburg, Miss. – The community is in mourning following the loss of two cherished residents, Bettye Jean Cooper Kelly and John W. Starnes Jr., who both passed away in August 2025. Bettye, a dedicated teacher and beloved family member, died on August 9 at the age of 78, while John, a devoted Navy veteran and family man, passed away four days later on August 13 at the age of 73.
Bettye Jean Cooper Kelly
Bettye Kelly was born on August 29, 1946, in Memphis, TN. Throughout her life, she was known for her unwavering love, kindness, and devotion to her family, friends, and students. She married Wilsey Kelly on November 29, 1968, and together they shared an enduring bond that lasted 57 years. Bettye was the mother of Holly Kelly and India Wooten and the grandmother of four grandchildren: Logan Surber, Mary Makenna Wooten, Wil Wooten, and John Carter Wooten.
Her teaching career spanned several institutions, including Tallulah in Louisiana, Magnolia Academy, Central Hinds Academy, Saint Aloysius Catholic School, and Hinds Community College. Bettye was passionate about her profession and maintained contact with many of her former students well into their adult lives, highlighting her profound impact on their education and personal development.
Educators, students, and community members alike remember Bettye for the warmth and caring she shared freely with those around her. She was preceded in death by her parents, J.P. and Mary Louise Cooper, her sister Jo Ann Gower, and her brothers Jim Cooper and John Cooper.
A private memorial service will be held to celebrate Bettye’s life, and contributions can be made to Micah’s Mission in Vicksburg, MS, in lieu of flowers.
John W. Starnes Jr.
John Starnes Jr. passed away on August 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to family and community. He was a dedicated father to his daughter Melissa and a grandfather to three grandchildren: Damien, Akira, and Deja. John served honorably as a gunner’s mate in the United States Navy and later worked as a government employee at the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and as a computer technician for Simpson Dura-Vent.
Active in his faith, John was a member of Gibson Memorial United Methodist Church and Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church. His love for God and family was a defining characteristic of his life. He also engaged with the Freemasons and participated in Cursillo, reflecting his values of community service and connection with others.
John is survived by his sister Betty, brother-in-law James, and several nieces and nephews, along with their families, who will carry on his memory.
A visitation for John Starnes Jr. occurred on August 17 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Fisher-Riles Funeral Home, followed by a memorial service at 3 p.m. led by Rev. Mitch Cochran. The services allowed friends, family, and community members to come together to honor his life and contributions to the community.
Community Loss
The passing of both Bettye Kelly and John Starnes has left a noticeable void in the hearts of those who knew them. Their legacies of love, service, and community involvement will be remembered by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with them. Both families will continue to feel the warmth of their spirits through the shared memories and the lives they touched.
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Additional Resources
- Vicksburg News: John W. Starnes Jr.
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Tribute Archive: Kenny “Pop” Landers
- Google Search: Bettye Jean Cooper Kelly
- Tukios: Memorial Service
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Navy
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