Elijah Bryant Kersey, Jr., 91, of San Antonio, Florida, moved to his forever home in heaven on 2/17/2021. He was born in Palmetto, Florida, on 12/2/1929 to Elijah Bryant Kersey, Sr. and Cecil Mae Kersey, where he and his brothers, Coy and Henry, worked the family farm, "wrestled alligators" and hunted rabbits. He graduated from Palmetto High School in 1947 and married Linda Lou Hensley in September 1951. Together they grew a family of 5 children as well as acres of cabbage and strawberries. In addition to being a lifelong farmer in Manatee County, he was also a commercial fisherman in partnership with his cousins, Charles and Wayron. He lived simply but gave largely not just to his family and church, but to his many friends in Manatee and Pasco counties. His life motto was "do good to all people, especially to those of the household of faith." He accepted Christ as his Savior shortly after being married and lived a faith-centered life with his actions speaking louder than words. He will be greatly missed by his faith family at Calvary Chapel in Dade City. He dearly loved his family and his family dearly loved him. Preceding him in death are his wife, Linda, his son, Mark, and son-in-law, Rick. He will be held in memory and heart by surviving family including sons Jim (Esther), Joel (Laura) and daughters Brenda Hadayia (Fred) and Rose Hargrave, grandchildren Bryan, Jeremy, Jennifer, Freddy, Keith, and Allison, 11 great-grandchildren, and 2 great, great-grandchildren, cousins and many nieces and nephews. Each one knows they were his favorite. A celebration of life will be held at Hodges Family Funeral Home at 11441 US Hwy 301, Dade City, FL on 3/13/21 at 12:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Torchbearers Christian Academy in care of Calvary Chapel, Inc., 12747 Happy Hill Rd, Dade City, FL