Bobby Lee Kelley

Bobby Lee Kelley passed away on August 18, 2024, at the age of 81.

 He was born on March 6, 1943, to Lawrence and Grace Aileen (DeBardeleben) Kelley in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Growing up in Tulsa, Bob attended Central High School, where he excelled in football. He graduated High School in 1961 and went on to earn a football scholarship at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, Oklahoma.

On September 14, 1962, Bob married his high school sweetheart, Karen, and they made their home in Tulsa. He began his career as a machinist for Frank Wheatley Pump and Valve, where he worked for over twenty years and went on to open his own business, BK Machine and Tools, which he operated for another twenty years.

Bob and Karen raised their three daughters, Pam, Teresa and Lori, in Tulsa until moving to Catoosa in 1981. Bob’s family was the most important part of his life and he worked hard to provide for them. Bob was also a man of faith and dedication, always active in his church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher. His strong sense of community extended beyond his church, as he enjoyed spending his free time hunting, fishing, and coaching his younger brother, Larry, in little league baseball and other sports in his younger years. Later in life, Bobby found joy in restoring old cars, watching classic Western movies, but most of all spending time with his grandchildren and cheering them on at their sporting events.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Grace Kelley; his daughter, Stacey Kelley; his brother, Gene Kelley; and his favorite dog, Molly.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Karen; his daughters, Pam Greene, Teresa Jackson, and Lori Chlouber; his grandchildren, Ryan and Chris Greene, and Blake and Caitlin Chlouber; his great-grandchildren, Paizlee and Presley Greene and Weston Gaghins; his sister, Mary Maddox and brother Larry Kelley.

Bob was a kind-hearted and generous man, always ready to lend a hand to those in need. His family and friends will remember him for his big heart, his faith, and the way he touched the lives of so many with his warmth and generosity. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.