Charles Henry Kelley

1927 - 2009

Charles Henry Kelley 1927 - 2009 Charles Kelley, 81, passed away unexpectedly at his home on February 1, 2009. The middle child of Fred and Maomi Kelley was born in Amarillo, Texas and raised on the Herring Cattle Ranch, where his father served as the foreman for forty-six years. There, the love of the cowboy lifestyle was born. He was a deeply loved husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. He attended local schools in Stinnett, Texas and after high school, served 3-1/2 years in the Army Air Corp. He met and married the feisty Billie Jo Sparks in 1948. Charles then pursued his college education at Texas Tech where he graduated with a degree in Accounting. He remained a lifelong "Red Raider" football fan. In 1953, after graduation, he and Billie moved to California and entered the grocery business. Through the years Charles opened Kelley's Supermarkets and later co-owned and operated County Fair Market and County Fair Hardware in Lamont with his close friend, Kenny Vibe. Before retiring, he and Billie built a home and cattle ranch in Glennville, California, complete with Texas Longhorn cattle. He spent many happy years on the ranch where he and Billie hosted many family holidays. The family will always cherish those memories. Charles never missed the opportunity to befriend someone, say a kind word, and share his wicked sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by his family and those who knew him. Charles was preceded in death by his parents and sister, June Christian. He is survived by his wife, Billie Jo; daughters, Kim Mosley (Steve), Kathy Kelley, and Kandy Kelley; grandchildren, Kelly Urias (Kelly), Lindsey Foster, Sarah Foster; and sister, Linda Thomas (Bert). As per Charles' request there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1523 California Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93304. "A Cowboys Last Request" Let me tell you folks Who have gathered here today That I'm a proud and thankful cowboy Who has just passed away I know it's hard But, please don't cry Fer I'm now ridin' God's trails High up in the sky The hoss I'm ridin' now Don't spook, buck or kick Fer God stables perfect horses And now I have my pick Terry Ike Clanton