Arkansas State University-Beebe held a touching memorial dedication earlier this fall to honor the life and legacy of beloved English professor Michael Kelly, who passed away in 2018 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Organized by Suzanne Lindsey, assistant professor of English, the event brought together former students, colleagues, and friends in the Owen Center hallway to dedicate a memorial bench commemorating Kelly’s impact on countless lives.
During the ceremony, many shared memories of Kelly’s humor, kindness, and unwavering commitment to education. Dr. Jennifer Methvin, ASU-Beebe chancellor, reflected on working alongside Kelly early in her career, describing him as a passionate educator and a joyful colleague.
“It was a joy to learn and grow in this profession with Michael,” Dr. Methvin said. “We shared a belief in teaching writing as a life skill, and he brought enthusiasm and heart to everything he did.”
Former dean Teddy Davis recalled Kelly’s dedication to students and his innovative spirit. Over his 25 years at ASU-Beebe, Kelly received the Positive Teacher Award twice and worked tirelessly to make textbooks more affordable, editing several low-cost literature texts for students.
“Michael always put his students first,” Davis said. “He gave them tools to succeed and inspired them to think deeply and love learning.”
Kelly’s students also left heartfelt messages during his illness, one reading: “Mr. Kelly – No matter what happens we still love you and appreciate everything you’ve done for us. You’re the bomb.com.”
His passion for teaching shone through in his writings, including an editor’s note in his text “Literary Worlds Volume I” where he described learning as “self-empowerment.”
The new memorial bench, located outside Kelly’s former classroom in the Owen Center, bears the inscription:
“In memory of our dear friend, Professor Michael Kelly. ‘And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.’ —Shakespeare.”
For more information about academic programs at ASU-Beebe, visit www.asub.edu
or call (501) 882-3600.
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