Steven Arthur Kelly

Steven Arthur Kelly, 74, of Katy, Texas, passed away peacefully of natural causes on September 24, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. A proud veteran, dedicated father, and lover of the great outdoors, Steven lived a life filled with adventure, purpose, and unwavering devotion to family.
Born on July 30, 1951, in Salem, Massachusetts, Steven grew up with a curiosity for life and a deep respect for nature-traits that would follow him throughout his years. His commitment to service began early. From 1968 to 1970, Steven served courageously in Vietnam, earning the Purple Heart Medal,Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Bronze Service Stars, Air Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation Badge with Palm and Meritorious Service Medal for his bravery and perseverance. Following his return home, he continued to serve his country in the U.S. Army, where he spent nearly two decades shaping young soldiers' lives as a Drill Sergeant at Fort Benning, Georgia. Earning him more medals of honorary, Master Parachutist Badge, Army Commendation Medal with 2 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Drill Sergeant Identification Badge, Army Achievement Medal with 2 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal. He retired from active duty in 1990, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, strength, and compassion.
After retiring from the military, Steven pursued higher education and proudly earned his bachelor's degree in Biology. His love of the ocean and marine life led him to a second career with SeaWorld-first in San Antonio, Texas, and later in Orlando, Florida-where he spent his days doing what he loved most: diving alongside the creatures he so admired.
Steven eventually retired to the peaceful forests of Maine, where he spent 13 joyful years surrounded by nature, fishing, hunting, and exploring the outdoors. In 2023, he returned to Texas to be closer to his family, where he spent his final years sharing stories, laughter, and memories with those he cherished most.
Steven is survived by his daughter, Tanya L. Guajardo, son-n-law, Johnny R Guajardo and grandson, Johnny Ray Guajardo. Daughter, Trina L Tunnell, son-n-law, Aaron Tunnell and granddaughters, Zoe, Natalie and Jasca Tunnell. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Terri L. Tutton. Mother, Mary-Jane Evette Delisle, Father, Arthur James Kelly, Brothers, Michael J Kelly and Shawn P Kelly. A man who loved to travel, fish, hunt, and scuba dive, Steven found peace and purpose in both nature and family. His adventurous spirit and warm presence will be missed beyond measure.
To those who knew him best, Steven will be remembered for his boundless love of travel, his adventurous spirit, and his steady, caring heart.
An honorary service recognizing Steven's military service will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 12:15 p.m. at the Houston National Cemetery on Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas. The service will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m. and will last approximately 20 minutes.
As his family lovingly says in farewell: *Love you a whole big bunch, Dad/Grandpa.*