Robert L. Kelley

Robert L. Kelley, 82, of Connersville, died late Friday evening, March 15, 2013, at Lincoln Centers-West, Connersville. A native of Blooming Grove in Franklin County, Robert was born October 6, 1930 to Clyde Vincent and Lulu Pilchard Kelley. He attended Franklin County schools and was married in Brookville on January 25, 1952 to the former Norma J. Smith. In 1980, he retired from Ford Electronics. For many years, he was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene and had most recently attended the Early Methodist Chapel in Connersville. Robert was known for playing the piano at area churches and nursing homes. He and his wife also enjoyed singing together in their younger years. Robert never met a stranger and enjoyed walking in his leisure time. Robert is survived by his wife of 61 years; his six children and their spouses: Rhea A. Kelley of Connersville; Judy B. Thomas and Jonathan L. of Hobe Sound, Florida; Gerald D. Kelley and Lois of Sullivan; Marvin D. Kelley and Diane of Connersville; Bobby Gene Kelley and Joyce M. of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Douglas S. Kelley and Anna M. of Frankfort, Kentucky; eighteen grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and many friends. In addition to his parents, Robert is preceded in death by an infant daughter: Sonja Joy Kelley; four brothers: Donald Eugene, Clarence Edward, Clyde Vincent, Raymond Allen Kelley; sister: Opal Marie Payton; great-granddaughter: Brianna Jackie Baldwin. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Myers Chapel, Connersville, officiated by ministers in Robert’s family. Interment will follow in Dale Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home from 6 to 8:30 pm. Tuesday where memorial contributions may be made to the Early Methodist Chapel. For additional information and to send condolences or memories, go to www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com.