Donald Kelley

Donald A. Kelley, 78, of Rockford, Ill., passed from this life into the next on Sept. 27, 2025. Don was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his gregarious spirit and his willingness to crack a joke - even during tough times - helped him make countless friends in his church community and beyond.

Born Oct. 25, 1946, to Donald Adelbert Kelley and Margaret Kelley (Olson), Don was raised in Rockford and graduated from East High School in 1964. A lover of both poetry and literature, he graduated from Western Illinois University with a degree in English. He remained an avid reader and would occasionally write poetry into adulthood.

Inspired by his mother's skill as a piano player, Don was a passionate admirer of music throughout his life. In 1967, he formed a band with his brother, David, and was a guitarist and vocalist for Uncle Donnie and the Peanut Butter Dance Band. From traditional church hymns to the Rolling Stones, Don celebrated music in many forms, appreciating the artistry of songwriting and the precision and showmanship of live performances. He later used his musical gifts in service of his community at First Covenant Church by singing in the choir and contributing to the worship band as a guitarist and vocalist.

Don was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with the 196th Light Infantry Brigade in Vietnam from 1970-71. He remained proud of his military service throughout his life and always made sure to thank other veterans for their military service.

A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Don worked for 32 years for Hamilton Sundstrand (now Collins Aerospace) as a technical publications specialist and program manager. His attention to detail served him well as he helped develop systems for both military and commercial aircraft.

After retiring, Don traveled with his wife Barbara to visit U.S. National Parks, enjoying the wonders of God's creation. Don and Barb also volunteered together for Habitat for Humanity. Once retired, Don worked three or more days a week on First Covenant's annual build project with Habitat for Humanity.

After losing his father at 14 years old, Don was deeply committed to his role as a dad to his own children, providing wisdom and guidance that he was unable to receive during his adolescence and young adulthood. Don beamed with pride around his three sons.

Don was a firm believer in celebrating life's simple pleasures - a well-groomed lawn, a spotlessly clean car, a good sandwich, a beautiful day fishing in good company, star-gazing on a clear night, and having a tasty dessert before bedtime.

Don is survived by his wife of 40 years, Barbara (Long), 72; sons Nathan, 47, Michael, 38, and Matthew, 36; brother David, 76; two grandsons; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald; mother, Margaret; and sisters Margaret ("Peggy") and Nancy.

A memorial service to celebrate Don's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at First Covenant Church, 316 Wood Rd., Rockford, Ill., officiated by Senior Pastor Peter Dibley, with a luncheon to follow. The family will hold a visitation at First Covenant Church before the service, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.