Gary Kelley Obituary
Born on July 10, 1937, Gary lived a full and vibrant life, marked by deep connections to his family, poker, and golf friends.
A dedicated husband, father, and professional, Gary began his career at Hahn Inc. and later contributed his talents to the Evansville Courier and Press, as well as Wolf's Auto Auction after he retired. He was a long-time member and served as president of the West Side Optimist Club.
Gary attended the Christian Church in Poseyville, and in 1959 he married his beloved wife, Cora Lee (Davis) Kelley. They celebrated 66 wonderful years together. After marriage they joined Salem United Methodist which became their lifelong church family.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Hallie Nicholas Broyles Kelley and William "Bill" Kelley, as well as his sister, Anna Faye Kelley, and brothers Eldon Kelley, Charles Broyles, and Galen Kelley. Gary is survived by his loving wife, Cora Lee; his daughter, Patty Kelley Scott; his favorite son-in-law Blair; his cherished grandchildren, Hunter and Erika Scott; his surviving sister, Bonnie Gambrel; niece Janie Herrenbruck Marheine (Bruce); and many other nieces, nephews and friends who held him dear. Special thanks to Lola, his Lulu, who spent the last year with him as his caregiver and workout partner.
Gary had a zest for life, enjoying activities such as golf (having several hole in one's), bowling, fishing, gardening, and visiting the casino. However, his greatest joy came from spending time with Cora, Patty, and watching his grandchildren journey through life.
A visitation will be held at Salem United Methodist Church, 6311 Kratzville Road, Evansville, Indiana 47710 on Saturday, January 31 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Following the visitation will be a service celebrating his life. A private family burial will take place in Poseyville at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the 501(c)(3) organization Heart4Seniors (www.heart4seniors.org) in honor of Gary L. Kelley, to support seniors who are hard of hearing in accessing hearing care technology.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Margaret Clem
January 27, 2026
The Hettenbach Family, former neighbors, express their sympathy to Cora Lee and Patty.
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