Troopers investigating Lincoln County man’s death

BRANCHLAND, W.Va. — Family members of an elderly Lincoln County man found murdered Monday morning say he was a good friend who would help anyone who needed it.

Burley Kelley was 88.
Burley Kelley was 88.

The body of Burley Kelley, 88, was found in his residence near Route 10 in Branchland.

State police troopers are investigating. They spent most of Monday morning at Kelley’s home.

Kelley’s daughter-in-law, Rachel Johnson Kelley, released the following statement Monday afternoon:

“He was a father of 12 and stepfather of 2 that he raised as his own. Grandfather of 41 and great-grandfather of 43. Uncle to many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He worked in the coal mines, lumberjack, construction worker & worked in Michigan at the Coca-Cola factory. He was a good friend to many and would help anyone that needed it.”

Troopers haven’t released much information about the investigation.