Billy Kelly attended Carson-Newman College in East Tennessee. Early in his ministry he pastored churches in NC and TN. Then, he entered the field of Evangelism.
The Lord used him to preach in churches, auditoriums, and tents for many years. Also, he was known for his ability as a Gospel singer. Therefore, he preached and sang at many of the campmeetings. Due to that fact he become known as "Mr. Campmeeting".