Ronald “Ron” David Kelley passed from this life to his heavenly home on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at age 64. He was born June 20, 1957, to the late Millard Burrell “Bill” and Evalou Smith Kelley. Ron is survived by his darling wife of 44 years, Kathy Darlene Roberts Kelley. He married “the girl next door” thanks to an introduction by their dear friend, Amelia Farmer Wolfer (husband and dear friend Pat). They spent more than four decades traveling, hiking and camping with family and their dear friends “the Paddle Posse”. Ron loved his family fiercely and was particularly proud to be “Daddy” to Kristina Lanelle Kelley Gilleland (Brad) and Amy Caroline Kelley Leonard (Clark) and “other dad” to Jacob (April) and Isaac (Sara) Bagwell. Although, lately his favorite titles were “Papa” to Asher Gilleland, Louella Leonard, and Everett Leonard and “Dog Dad” to his faithful bulldog, Thor. Ron is survived by his cherished mother-in-law, Nell Cronic, beloved siblings Margaret Langdon (Willard), Betty Bennett (Jim), Richard Kelley (Kay), Donna Grizzle (Doug), Melinda Gailey (Gary), and Mark Kelley (Nancy), and lifelong friend, Steve Brown. He is also survived by many cousins, nephews and nieces, of whom he was so proud. He is preceded in death by his lifelong friend Johnny Brown.
Ron co-owned and operated Kelley’s Auto Repair Service with his dad and brothers for over 30 years serving Browns Bridge Road and the Gainesville area. He counted it a great joy to have spent so many years providing honest service alongside his family. His mama always delighted in taking care of “her boys” for their daily lunch breaks together, especially on “Bean Day” and “Sunday Coffee” when all the family gathered. Rarely will there ever be a more devoted set of siblings. Ron was a brilliant story-teller, lyricist, singer, creator and mechanic, who could (and did) fix just about anything for anybody. On a beautiful day, you could often find Ron “talking with Jesus” in the mountains on his motorcycle. While he will be greatly missed by so many, we are rejoicing with him now that he is healed and reunited with his Heavenly Father and many loved ones.
Memorial Park Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 27, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church from 1-3 p.m., with the service and interment to follow. Flowers are welcome, however, in lieu of them, you may make contributions to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church or a charity of your choice in his memory.
Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA 30504 is in charge of arrangements.
