Marcia Kelley

Marcia Kelley obituary, Three Rivers, MI

Marcia Kelley

Marcia Kelley Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Ray Funeral Services - Three Rivers on Oct. 1, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Marcia Lou Kelley, age 79, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, at the Laurels of Coldwater. Born on January 19, 1946, in Kalamazoo, MI, she was the beloved daughter of August and Marie Bender.
Marcia lived a life full of love, warmth, and resilience. A passionate gardener, she found great joy in growing both flowers and vegetables, and she took pride in canning her harvest to share with family and friends. She had a special fondness for her late cat, Baby, and enjoyed relaxing days watching Westerns and scary movies. Marcia was well known for her delicious no-bake cookies, and her door was always open for a visit or a chat.
She loved her family fiercely and was happiest when surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Her favorite hangout was Sam's Bar in Three Rivers, where she enjoyed good company and good times.
Marcia is survived by her children: Ashley Kelley of Constantine, MI; Shelby Kelley of White Pigeon, MI; and Harry Papke, Jr. and Jerry Papke, both of Three Rivers, MI. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Josh Kelley and Keshia Moyer. Additionally, she leaves behind step-children Darren Kelley, Sheila Howell, and Patty Kelley; her loving sister JoAnn Papke of Portage, MI; niece: Debra Curtis; nephews: Joseph Papke and John Papke and many nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.
She is preceded in death by her husband Billy Carol Kelley and grandson Timothy Kelley, Siblings: Mary Ann Keller, Linda Darling and Bob Bender, Carolyn Cutler, Shirley Curtis.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 22, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093. A burial of ashes will be held at Riverside Cemetery in Three Rivers, MI on June 23, 2025 at 10:00AM.
Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to gather and share in Marcia's memory. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Marcia Kelley, please visit our Tree Store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Marcia's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Marcia Kelley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Marcia Kelley's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?