Ron Kelly

DURHAM: Ron Kelly, 70, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at his home in Durham surrounded by his family. He was born to the late Hubert Clinton Kelly and Irene Buff Kelly in Burke County, NC where he developed his love for the mountains and the outdoors.
Mr. Kelly was a hard working and devoted husband of 41 years and father. He exuded integrity, was grounded in his faith and made friends wherever he went. He loved to help and serve others. Mr. Kelly graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Business and Finance. He was a store manager for Harris Teeter for 17 years and then transitioned into sales with Mutual Distributing Company for 25 years. He was a world traveler who loved the beach and Ocean Isle. He was sharp whitted, an avid Tarheel fan, enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family. He leaves behind a legacy to his friends/family of perseverance through all of life's challenges and never losing his positive spirit and humor. His family will always remember his side hugs and a pat and "we love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck".
Mr. Kelly is survived by his wife, Jill Scott Kelly; son, Alex Christopher Kelly (Erin); daughter, Emily Scott Kelly; granddaughter, Poppy Caroline Kelly; sisters, Dereama Coffin (Gary), Tamara Kelly Packard (Wayne); brother, Jody Kelly (Sarah); and nieces, Lindsey Roberson (Gus), Dana Webb (Justin), Kelly Morris (Seth), Kelsey Webb (Tim), Kirsten Marett (Jeff).
A memorial service will be held on October 22nd, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Ridgecrest Baptist Church. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial donations be made to Hands of Light in Action.org; or to Angela's Ark angelsark.org; or to Ridgecrest Baptist Church: 1104 Milton Rd., Durham, NC 27712.
The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. in Durham. Online condolences can be made at www.clementsfuneralservice.com.
We greatly appreciate the medical care and support provided by Dr. Adam Wenzlik, Dr. Thomas D'Amico, Dr. John Strickler, Evan Dropkin and Duke Hospice.