“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV)

His Life — One of a Kind!

Some people pass through life quietly, while others leave an unforgettable impression on everyone they meet. Dennis Ray Kellum, affectionately known to family and friends as “Tweety,” was certainly one of those unforgettable people. With his infectious laughter, generous heart, colorful personality, and unmistakable love for life, Tweety had a way of turning an ordinary moment into a memorable occasion.

Born on December 26, 1959, Dennis was one of six children born to Elmo and Della Kellum in the small East Texas community of Bon Wier. While some folks choose to get out of the country and head to the city as soon as they are of age, Tweety had no desire to leave Bon Wier, Texas. As far as he was concerned, everything a man needed to enjoy life was right there: good people, country roads, fast cars, hard work, his little blue can, and somebody to laugh with.

A Hardworking Man with a Country Heart

Tweety attended Newton High School, graduating with the Class of 1978. Immediately following graduation, he entered the logging industry, beginning a career that would become an important part of his identity. Over the years, he learned nearly every aspect of the logging business, developing the knowledge, skill, and work ethic of a seasoned logger. But of all the responsibilities that came with the job, nothing brought him greater satisfaction than getting behind the wheel of a log truck. There was something about being behind the wheel, traveling those country roads, hauling timber, and doing what he knew best that brought him genuine satisfaction.

Tweety was a working man, through and through. He believed in taking care of business Monday through Friday. But when the workweek ended, everybody knew what time it was! The weekdays were for making a living, but the weekends were for enjoying life – and boy did Tweety enjoy life!

A Man of Faith

At an early age, Dennis accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior under the pastorate of Bishop Rufus Kyles at Live Oak Church of God in Christ. Now, anybody who knew Tweety knew he wasn't the fellow you would necessarily find sitting on a church pew on Sunday mornings. Although he wasn't a regular church attendee as an adult, he faithfully supported church programs and financially contributed when there was a need.

His Way — If Tweety Was There, You Knew It!

Now, if there's one thing that absolutely must be said about Dennis Ray Kellum, it's this: Tweety knew how to have a good time, and he knew how to make sure everybody else had one, too! He had a jovial spirit, an infectious personality, and a natural ability to turn an ordinary gathering into something worth remembering. If Tweety showed up, you could almost guarantee three things: somebody was going to laugh, somebody was going to hear something they probably shouldn't repeat, and somebody was going to have a story to tell the next day!

He loved race cars, hot rods, and anything with enough horsepower to get his attention. He appreciated the sound of a powerful engine, the excitement of a fast car, and the freedom of the open road. And, of course, there was that familiar little blue can and the trash-talking at the domino table! But perhaps the most unforgettable thing about Tweety was his vocabulary! Let's just say Tweety had a way with words. And if he had something on his mind, you didn't have to wonder how he felt about it. He was going to tell you!

But here's what made him special: beneath that colorful language, playful spirit, and larger-than-life personality was one of the most generous hearts you could ever encounter. He would help anybody in need, even if it meant having his compassionate heart taken advantage of.

His Legacy — A Lifetime of Love and Memories

On Thursday, October 8, 2026, Dennis Ray Kellum completed his earthly journey at the age of 66, leaving behind a lifetime of unforgettable memories and a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rita Kellum; two of his children, Chelsea Kellum and DJ Kellum; his parents, Elmo and Della Kellum; and numerous other cherished relatives and dear friends.

Tweety leaves to cherish his precious memories five children whom he dearly loved: Dr. Keshia Powell Kellum-Byerly (Tod), Desmond De'Ray Gatson, Teiheshia Finnell-Wortham (James), Christal Gatlin, and Denetra Kellum; and seven grandchildren who are part of his continuing legacy.

He also leaves five beloved siblings: Shelia Smith, Michael Kellum, Bonita Gosey (Ronnie), Lisa Lynn, and Stephanie Canady (Rob).

Holding a special place in his heart was Schwanna Noble, along with her children, Jabria (JJ), Kelis, and JaBraylon, who were also a special part of his life.

He is also survived by his beloved aunt, Clydean Hawthorne, the last living matriarch of the Henry-Tyler family, whose life represents a treasured connection to the family's rich history and heritage.

Tweety's circle of love extended far beyond his immediate family. He leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, his beloved Levias in-laws, and countless lifelong friends.

Forever Our Tweety

He worked hard. He laughed loud. He gave freely. He loved his people. And he lived life his way! So today, even through our tears, we celebrate the man who brought so much laughter into our lives. The log truck is parked. The engine has grown quiet. The weekend gathering won't quite be the same. And that familiar voice, with all its colorful expressions, will be deeply missed. But somewhere down the road, when family and friends come together, the laughter starts flowing, and somebody tells another unforgettable story, Tweety's spirit will be right there in the memories they share.

Rest well, Tweety. You were loved, you will be missed, and you will never be forgotten.

There was only one Tweety—and that's all Bon Wier could handle!