Gale "Kraig" Lynn Kelsey, age 60, of Cumming, GA, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 24, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Born on April 25, 1965, in Independence, Missouri, Kraig dedicated his life to ministry, music, and serving others. He earned his bachelor's degree from Southwest Baptist University, where he met the love of his life and ministry partner, Missy. For over 42 years, they served side by side, sharing their faith and voices in song, and building a life centered on Christ and community.
Kraig was a joyful and passionate follower of Jesus, known for his fun-loving spirit, magnetic personality, and gift for making everyone feel seen, welcomed, and loved. He had an incredible ability to connect with people, rarely going anywhere without seeing someone he knew, and was often the heart of every gathering. His laughter, encouragement, and genuine care left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
With a deep love for senior adults, Kraig and Missy led numerous trips across the country, creating joyful experiences and lifelong memories for those he served. His ministry touched lives across generations, whether through youth camps early in his career as a youth pastor in Rogers, Arkansas, or more recently at First Baptist Church of Alpharetta, where he served faithfully as Pastor of Member Involvement and leader of the First City Prime ministry.
Kraig's legacy is one of faith, family, and love. He is survived by his loving wife, Missy; his three sons, Koby and his wife Morgan with their children Everrae and Sunday, Klay and his wife Tara with their children Michaelyn and Isla, and Kyler and his wife Averie; his parents, Dale and Karen; and his sister, Kimberlee and her husband Donnie Shook; as well as many beloved extended family members, including nieces, nephews, cousins, and mother in-law who were deeply impacted by his life. He was preceded in death by his brother, Scott.
A visitation and reception will be held on Friday, August 29th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Alpharetta, where the family will receive friends. A celebration of life service will follow on Saturday, August 30th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the same location.
In remembrance of Kraig, the family kindly requests donations be made to First Baptist Church of Alpharetta in support of the ministries that Kraig so passionately served.
First Baptist Church Alpharetta
44 Academy Street
Alpharetta, GA 30009
http://firstcity.com/give