Lieutenant Harold Wagner Kelly, 54, of Cedar Park, Texas, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, May 15, 2026, following a courageous battle with ALS.

Born on October 12, 1971, Harold graduated from Palacios High School and was a proud member of Austin Fire Department Cadet Class 109. He earned an Associate of Applied Science in Hazardous Materials Management from Texas State Technical College in 1995 and a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies from Eastern Oregon University in 2003. He began his distinguished public service career as a police officer before answering the call to become a firefighter. He served the Austin Fire Department with honor and dedication for nearly 20 years, rising to the rank of Lieutenant in Prevention. Known for his bravery and quick thinking, Harold and his fellow firefighters earned multiple accolades and commendations for their courageous service in the line of duty. His fellow firefighters remember him as a steady leader who ran toward danger without hesitation, always putting others first. Even in his final days, he remained surrounded by his firefighter family, along with his loving family and friends.

Above all, Harold was a devoted husband and a loving, proud father to his two teenage sons. His strong Christian faith guided every step of his life. He lived with quiet integrity, deep compassion, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.

He is survived by his loving wife, Melanie Kelly; their sons, Colton Kelly and Christian Kelly; his mother, Pearl Kelly; his brother, Donald Kelly Jr. (Terri); his sisters, Stephanie Winfield (Charles)and Beverly Vacek; his nieces and nephews, Justin Kelly, Dylan Kelly, Lucas Kelly, Jessica Garza, Kaitlyn Studer, Amy Cink, and Charles Winfield III; and a wide circle of family and friends who will forever cherish the example he set of selfless service and faithful living. He also leaves behind many great friends who will always treasure his loyalty, kindness, and the joy he brought into their lives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Kelly Sr., and Patricia Kelly.

A visitation and funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Northwest Hills United Methodist Church in Austin.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, Texas, officiated by Pastor Shane Jackson. The Austin Fire Department will provide a ceremonial escort and honor guard to bring Harold to his final resting place and will perform the traditional firefighter “Last Call” ceremony. Honorary Pallbearers will be Steve Frangulie, Jamie Garcia, Kenny Maynard, Donald Sonneir Jr., Adam English, and Andy Sanchez. A reception and lunch will follow at Beneath the Oaks in Midfield, Texas, a short distance from Hawley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made in Harold’s honor to the Austin Firefighters Association. “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23). Harold has completed his earthly journey and entered the arms of the One he served so faithfully. His legacy of bravery and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.