Gary Kelley

Gary Lee Kelley was born February 7, 1953 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Kathleen (Cass) and Joseph (Joe) Kelley. His brother Dennis was two years older. Theirs was a classic 1950’s childhood consisting of radio flyer bicycle riding, cap-gun shooting, and newspaper delivery route walking. When the boys were very young, their father passed away. Their mother Cass was sustained through the support of her local church, where she eventually met Robert (Bob) Reiher and remarried. Bob raised Gary and Dennis as his own sons, was an amazing father and husband, and Cass to this day reminisces fondly of the beautiful memories they created with their sons.

Gary was a diligent and curious student. Cass recalls that he was always kind, the first one to help anyone in need. Gary never had an enemy. Throughout his early career with International Election Systems he was able to travel and discover many new cities. During that time he met and fell in love with Ginger, and they were married soon after. Together they created a beautiful, blended family that was full of love and laughter. They considered each others children as their own. Lisa, Shellie, Phil and Shawn established a sibling bond that has held strong through all the ups and downs of life. There were as many smiles as there were fights, all of which led to unforgettable stories. Just ask one of them about the beach ball and broken ceiling fan, or the alleged underage consumption of alcohol from their grandparents’ pool bar circa 1992 - a mystery unsolved to this day.

Gary was an honest and hard worker, trusted and valued by his employers and peers. Eventually after a long, rewarding career with John Deere, he was graced to begin his retirement alongside Ginger as she began hers. Gary and Ginger were the loves of each other’s lives; he never missed an opportunity to care for, or adore her. They shared wonderful times frequenting Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, participating in every milestone and rite of passage for their grandchildren, and cuddling their sweet sassy pup, Buttercup. They found comfort in the simple joys of life. They were deeply content with the peaceful plot they curated, and with the family they had been blessed.

Gary immensely enjoyed good food. Among his favorites - a carne asada burrito, linguine pescatore, and Buc-ee’s Nug-ees. Any given summer, you could catch Phil or Lisa driving to Tennesse with a cooler full of deconstructed Philly cheesesteaks and several dozen mini cinnamon buns from a favorite NJ bakery. But nothing came close to how much Gary loved Ginger’s homemade pancakes. He was known for polishing off the remnants from all of Ginger’s plates at many restaurants over the years. Gary’s ideal morning consisted of slowly enjoying a hot cup of coffee while watching the morning sun cascade over the mist and haze of the mountains, accompanied by easy conversation about what the day would hold.

Gary was a man of unshakeable devotion to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He faithfully attended Central Baptist Church, prayed daily, and served his community with a generous heart. He understood what it meant to not worry about the material things of the world, but to rather store up treasures in heaven. He was steady, slow to anger, gentle, compassionate, selfless, and loving.

Gary’s hugs will be remembered as the fiercest, longest lasting, most intense embrace all of us have ever known. Gary’s laugh was distinctly joyful and contagious. His silliness was best displayed during time spent with his grandchildren. His kind eyes would lock in contact with yours as he made you feel heard and validated. He was the best listener and advice giver, always ready with practical wisdom and humorous perspective. He always put his family first, and would do anything to help anyone in need. We are all so blessed to have shared precious time loving him, and being loved by him.

Gary is predeceased and was loved by:

His biological father Joe, who succumbed to cancer in 1957 after a courageous battle. His dad Bob, who passed away peacefully in 2009 surrounded by family. His son Shawn, who was taken tragically too soon at the age of 31 in 2014. Shawn is loved and remembered always. His brother Dennis, who passed away unexpectedly in 2021. Dennis is loved and remembered always.

Gary is survived and cherished by:

His wife Ginger. His mother Cass. His daughter Lisa, his son-in-law John; his granddaughter Erin. His daughter Shellie and her husband Peter; his grandchildren Cody, Braelyn, and Cayden, and his great-granddaughter Adalynn. His son Phil and his wife Beth; his granddaughter Jane. His granddaughter Jacy, and his great-granddaughter Jalynn - Shawn’s posterity. His sister-in-law Jean, survived by her husband Dennis. His nieces and nephews, and their children; his extended family; his many friends and neighbors within his church and community.

We are very grateful for the outpouring of love and support and during this unforeseen and difficult time as we prepare to say goodbye. The thoughtfulness and generosity of our friends and community has sustained us in our deepest sadness. We are finding peace as we celebrate and honor Gary’s life and legacy.

Family will be receiving visitors for Viewing this Thursday, August 22 from 5pm-7pm followed by a memorial service starting at 7pm.

Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children’s, or if you wish to send flowers please consider Flowers by Tammy in Greeneville.