William Edward Kelley

William Edward “Bill” Kelley, age 65, of Mansfield, Missouri was born on October 16, 1959, in Cabool, Missouri, to Floyd and Juanita Kelley.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Linda Kelley; and siblings Lowell Kelley, Noel Dean Kelley, Carl Kelley, Shirley Cottengim and her husband, Jack, Sue Matney, Mike Ryan, David Ryan, Sherry Ryan, and Sharon Woods.

Bill’s heart was deeply broken after Linda’s passing. The two shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories, and those who knew Bill could see how much he missed her. Now, they are together again.

Bill is survived by his siblings, Jesse Kelley and wife, Barbara, Rick Kelley and wife, Nancy, Jim Ryan, Joe Ryan, and Marilyn Flake and husband, David; sisters-in-law, Lucille Kelley, Billie Kelley, and Barbara Kelley; children, Dana Kelley and her partner, Wayne Williams, of Ava, Kathy Bradshaw and her husband, Rusty, of Norwood, Amy Kelley of Ava, John Matney of Mansfield, Jacob Kelley of Ava, and Jessica Davidson and her husband, Jerry, of Ava.

He was a proud grandfather to Brittany Westpheling and her partner, Chris Deatherage, of Sparta, Emily Bradshaw of Norwood, Taylor Bradshaw of Norwood, Hayden Scott and partner, Kylee, of Texas, Harley Davidson, Jared Davidson, Jayden Ramsey, Kylee Bradshaw, Abagail Davidson, Braxton Bradshaw, Izzabella Davidson, Greyson Bradshaw, Alyssa Downs and husband, J.J., Taylor Matney and wife, Adrain, Emma Matney, and Zaven Thulin and wife, Jamisen. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Jaelynn Maggard, Weston Deatherage, Fisher Bradshaw, Athena Deatherage, Emery Downs, Tyler Downs, Carter Downs, Beaux Downs, Rylan Matney, Grayson Matney, Theodore Thulin, Nora Thulin, and Nolyn Thulin. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends.

Bill was a jack of all trades, working throughout his life as a mechanic, heavy equipment operator, volunteer firefighter, a city employee, and a handy man. He took pride in a hard day’s work and was always willing to lend a hand when someone needed help.

He was known for his big personality and even bigger stories—some of them might have been a little windy, but they always brought laughter to those around him. Bill enjoyed sharing a good joke, pulling a fun trick, and striking up conversations wherever he went. He never met a stranger, and his personality and humor left a mark on everyone who knew him.

Above all else, Bill believed his greatest accomplishment in life was his family. He was endlessly proud of his children and grandchildren, and nothing brought him more joy than seeing them happy and together.

He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his memorable personality, and the love he had for his family and friends.

Memorial contributions can be made to the family in care of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home Mansfield, Missouri, by dropping off in person or by mail to: 315 N. Main St. Mountain Grove, Missouri, 65711.