Ronald Kelly

1942 - 2025

Ronald Kelly, age 82, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2025. Born on August 31, 1942, in Frankfort, Indiana, to Ralph and Inez (Smith) Kelly. A graduate of Clinton Central High School, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1961 to 1965 as a boiler technician. During his time in the service, he was stationed in Newport, Rhode Island, where he met the love of his life, Danetta, through mutual friends. It was love at first sight-they dated for nine months before marrying on September 13, 1964. Ronald was a devoted husband and a man of many passions. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, and cheering on Purdue football, the Indianapolis Colts, the Indiana Pacers, and professional boxing. A man of strong faith, he was actively involved at River City Church, where he served faithfully as a cameraman for several years. He is survived by his wife, Danetta (Rice) Kelly; his children, Eddie (Emy) Kelly and Robin (Greg) Wooten; five granddaughters: Crystal (Juan), Stacey (Brett), Kathryn (Levi), Theresa, and Mary; six great grandchildren; one sister, Nancy (Howie) Koehl; and one brother, Fred (Vicky) Kelly. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents. Family and friends may visit from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 9, 2025 at Tippecanoe Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 9, 2025, at Tippecanoe Funeral Chapel, 3631 Morehouse Road, West Lafayette, Indiana. Entombment will follow. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be left for Ronald's family at https://tippecanoememorygardens.com/obituaries-list/ To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald, please visit our floral store.