Dennis William Kelley

Dennis William Kelley, a devoted family man, legendary horseman, and friend to all, passed away on December 18, 2025, in Nampa, Idaho, at the age of 77 surrounded by his beloved family.

Born on February 9, 1948, in Prairie City, Oregon, Dennis was raised with a deep appreciation for the ranching way of life. His childhood was shaped by the guidance of his grandparents, William and Mamie Bates, and he spent his youth working alongside his father, Melville, on the family ranch as well as selling horses. An exceptional athlete, Dennis set school and state records in football, basketball, baseball, and track before continuing his football career at Treasure Valley Community College.

In 1969, Dennis began a career as a Fruit and Vegetable Inspector for the State of Idaho before moving to Horse Trading fulltime. On January 17, 1970, he married the love of his life, Kitty, in Nampa. Together, they shared nearly 56 years of marriage and raised four exceptional children who became his proudest legacy. Later in life, he also owned and leased out a gravel pit in Greenleaf.
Horses were more than a hobby for Dennis; they were in his blood. From traveling to rodeos with rough stock to raising registered Paints and managing horse sales at Treasure Valley Livestock, he was known far and wide as an honest horse trader and a "horse whisperer". His ability to listen and his genuine interest in others made him a magnet for people, often making lifelong friends over a saddle horse deal. When not with his horses, Dennis was often in the mountains hunting elk in Big Creek with "the Bills" or exploring the country from the driver’s seat of his pickup.

Dennis was the ultimate family man and the "proudest Grandpa," fiercely supporting his grandchildren in everything they did. He was a man of great character—a listener, an encourager, and a friend. Dennis made everyone’s life richer and while he is greatly missed, his family and friends take solace that he is at peace above.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Kelley; his parents, Melville and Clarice Kelley; and his sister, Melda Roberts.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife, Kitty; his daughter, Dawsha Pool (John) and grandsons Sawyer and Jaxton; his son, Jaydee Kelley; his daughter, Brooke Stone (Cody) and grandson Sterling; and daughter-in-law, Kim Kelley and grandchildren Ryker, Ramsey, and Regan. He also leaves behind his brother, Jim Kelley (Bonnie); and sisters Tammy Oliver (Nick), Patty Basey (Dave), and Shirley Boone.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Owyhee Community Center in Homedale, ID, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 11:00 am. All friends and family are welcome to attend.