Obituary of RICHARD HENRY KELLEY

Richard Henry Kelley, Sr., aged 88, passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in Sun City Center, Florida. Born on December 21, 1935, in Farmington, Iowa, he was the son of Ivan Leon Kelley and Mary Elaine Thomas Kelley.

Richard dedicated 30 years of his life to American Airlines, where he served as an Avionic Technician. Beyond his professional life, he found solace in the vast ocean as an avid offshore fisherman, with his most prized catch being a 200lb Marlin. His love for woodworking and his knack for fixing things made him a skilled handyman. Richard’s light-hearted nature endeared him to everyone he met. He had a penchant for telling jokes and spreading smiles wherever he went.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. Richard is survived by his two children: Richard Kelley, Jr. and his wife Janette of Heath, Texas, and Lauretta Gondles and her husband Monte of Sun City Center, Florida. His three siblings, Bonnie Kelley, Diane Hawthorne, and her husband Donald, and Dennis Kelley and his wife Terri, mourn his passing. Additionally, he is survived by two grandchildren, Matthew Kelley and Justin Trupp, along with two great-grandchildren, Connor Kelley and Corbin Kelley. Richard also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Mary Kelley, and his beloved wife, Phyllis Marie Kelley, who passed away in 2016. Richard also lost six siblings and one grandson, Brandon Kelley.

A graveside service to honor Richard’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, March 20th, 2024, at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

May his memory continue to bring warmth and laughter to those who knew and loved him.