Kelsey Family Commitment to the Central Florida Community for over 90 Years

The Kelsey principals, both past and present, have contributed greatly to the Central Florida community through their involvement in numerous different events and organizations.

Eugene W. Kelsey III

Gene has been an active member at First Baptist Church of Orlando since 1935. He served as a Deacon from age 25. When he was 77, he was honored as Deacon Emeritus. Gene taught the Bible to young people and adults for 38 years. At his own expense he went on 14 mission trips with his wife Barbara, sharing the gospel and helping needy churches with construction. Gene has served on many committees in his church and served a term as Chairman of Personnel. In 1946 First Baptist Church formed a boy scout troop and Gene was the first scout master.

Gene joined his dad in the construction business February 15, 1946, after his honorable discharge from the US Navy. During World War II he was in combat duty at Ajaccio, Corsica; Marseilla, France; Naples,Italy; and Casablanca. During the invasion of Southern France he was responsible for keeping Wahington in touch with the battle front via teletype.

He has served as President of the Associated General Contractors of America and worked on the Zoning Board of adjustments for the City or Orlando for 18 years. In addition, Gene wrote the first exam for building contractors of Orange County and graded the papers and signed the licenses for several years. Gene has served on the Orange County Advisory Construction Board, and his positions held in the community include; Vice President of Northside Boys Club of Orlando, Chairman of the Board for Baptist Terrace for nine years, and a member of Aircraft Owner and Pilots Association. Gene is also a member of the Country Club of Orlando and Country Club of Asheville, North Carolina.

J. Michael Kelsey

Mike Kelsey also has had significant involvement with First Baptist of Orlando. He has served as a Member, Deacon, and Bible Study teacher. In addition to these roles, Mike served as a Member of the First Orlando Foundation Board for four years and the First Baptist Church Building Committee Chairman and Vice Chairman for several Terms. Mike was also a Board Member for the church's school, The First Academy for 3 years.

Mike has served on several committees and in different positions in the community including Former Director for the Central Florida Builders Exchange Federal Credit Union for 4 years and a Member for 5 years, and Member of the Orlando Municipal Planning Board for years. Mike also was a member of the Orange County Historical Museum Board for 4 years.