Ron Kelley

Ronald Gene Kelley "Ron" was born on October 15, 1945, in Springfield, Missouri. He was the eldest of three children to Don and Jeri Kelley. He grew up in Springfield alongside his brother, Randy, and his sister, Patricia. Ron accepted Christ as his personal savior at a young age and was baptized at the First General Baptist Church. 

It was during this time that Ron met the love of his life, Judy Claxton. They began dating when he was just 14 years old. Ron worked as a paper boy while attending Central High School. Upon graduation, Ron went to Southwest Missouri College where he excelled at journalism. 

Ron and Judy- whom he affectionately called "Clancy"- were married September 11, 1965, at the First General Baptist Church where they attended. Ron adored his wife. They enjoyed 56 years of marriage together before Judy passed away in 2022.

The young couple moved to Tulsa where Ron began working at the newspaper. They made Tulsa their lifelong home. Their daughter, Michelle Lynne "Missy" was born in June of 1969. They were a tight knit family of three. 

Ron was a dedicated entrepreneur who started numerous successful businesses. He worked hard to become a home builder and land developer. He owned several companies over the years including Kelley Properties, Ron Kelley Homes, Westec Properties & First Equity Corporation. He is credited with developing many neighborhoods throughout South Tulsa.

Beyond his professional life, Ron loved to play hard. He was an avid adventurer who raced motorcycles, go-carts, drag raced, and rode every roller coaster possible. He even channeled this passion into a business, opening Seabring Grand Prix family entertainment center in the early 80's, featuring Formula 1 style race cars.

Family vacations were a cherished part of his life. He loved traveling the East and West Coasts, Hawaii, and spending time on the beach. Ron was also an avid golfer who enjoyed playing and collecting golf clubs. He found immense joy in his role as "Gaga" to his granddaughter, Alexis Jade, born in July of 2005. Spending time with her was one of his favorite things to do, whether swimming in the pool, reading books, or simply making her laugh. 

Faith has always been the foundation of Ron's life. His personal relationship with Jesus was the most important thing in his life. Ron attended and was very involved with Evangelistic Temple for many years. Ron considered it an honor to be a speaker for the Full Gospel Men's Group during this time. For the past 32 years, he was an active and devoted member of Church on the Move, where he loved being a head usher. He truly enjoyed mentoring and encouraging that group of men. He and Judy also served on the prayer team, visiting and encouraging people in the hospital. Ron cherished his family and taught them all the value of prayer. 

Surviving family members include his daughter, Michelle Norman, husband, Rodney and granddaughter, Alexis Norman of Bixby; his sister in-law Barbara Kelley of Sand Springs, and her daughters , Jennifer and Dustin Little, and their children Breana Henderson, husband Bennett, and Tyler Horn; Candice Miller and husband, Shane of Bentonville, Arkansas, and their children Olson, Calton, and Dutton; nieces and nephews, Jeff and Emily Phillips of Charlotte, SC, Kelly Phillips of Lake Wylie, SC, Lynsey and Adam Sheef and son, Barrett Cable of Owasso; Brother in-law, Ronald E. "Eddie" Claxton and wife, Sue of Aiken, SC and their daughter, Lisa Langford and husband Jeff, and their daughter, Meredith.