Maurice Kelly

Obituary for Maurice Kelly
May 30, 1936 – June 21, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude, we celebrate the life of Maurice Kelly, a devoted father, loving husband, and steadfast friend. Maurice was born on May 30, 1936, in Luther, Oklahoma, to Otis and Lillie (Vickers) Kelly. After the passing of his mother during his early childhood, Maurice and his sister, Loretta, were lovingly raised by their father and a caring village of extended family members who helped guide and support them through life.

Maurice lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and deep love. Though reserved in nature, he was a man of powerful presence and gentle wisdom. His values were rooted in hard work, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility.

He was the proud father of four children: Maurice Kelly Jr. (Laurie), Angela Kelly-Owens, Kaleb Kelly, and Ron Kelly. While he did not raise them in the traditional sense, Maurice deeply loved his children, supported them in every way he could, and took great pride in the people they became. Their accomplishments, growth, and perseverance brought him lasting joy and a profound sense of purpose.

For more than 51 years, Maurice was united in marriage to Carolyn M. (Bell) Kelly, his partner in life and love. Their bond was filled with devotion, friendship, and a shared passion for bowling, which carried them across the country and into the hearts of many. Their laughter, teamwork, and trophies became symbols of a life enjoyed together, and even at 89 years old, Maurice remained active on the lanes—celebrating his birthday doing what he loved most.

Professionally, Maurice held a number of jobs early in life—working at a meat packing plant and a car dealership—before ultimately becoming a skilled truck driver. He found his professional home at Jack Cooper Transport, where he dedicated 26 years of reliable service before retiring in 2001.

In his later years, Maurice enjoyed life’s simpler pleasures: the beauty of flowers, time in nature, good conversations, and the thrill of a perfect strike. He passed peacefully on June 24, 2025, with his beloved Carolyn by his side.

In Loving Remembrance:

Maurice is survived by his wife, Carolyn Kelly; his children—Maurice Kelly Jr. (Laurie), Angela Kelly-Owens, Kaleb Kelly, and Ron Kelly; and his beloved grandchildren—Leshawn Kelly Johnson, Janelle Kelly, Kendall Kelly (Korrinna), Dante Kelly (Genevieve), Travis Owens, Nicholas Owens, Andrea Owens, Alexandrea Paredes (Quinlin), Ryan Kelly (Hannah), and Kelly Paul.

He also leaves behind great-grandchildren who filled his life with happiness: Zuri, Griffin, Grady, Oakley, Aqueel, Aniya, Amillio, Amillion, Harlow, Xavier, Everyleigh, Piper, Emmett, Aria, and Aliya.

Also remembering him with love are his brothers-in-law—Edward Gee Bell (Jean), Larry Bell (Donna), Wardell Bell (Patrice); sister-in-law—Brenda Bell-Ennis; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended relatives, and longtime friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Special thanks to his niece, Gina Richardson, and her husband, Jeffery, for their attentive and loving care, and to his devoted friend and caregiver, Sue Bishop, whose compassion and presence brought peace to his final days.

Maurice was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Lillie Kelly; his sister, Loretta; and his son-in-law, Marshall Owens.

Celebration of Life Services:

Viewing & Visitation

Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Wednesday, July 2, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Heritage Funeral Home
1300 N. Lottie Ave., Suite #2000
Oklahoma City, OK 73117

Memorial Service
Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 11:00 AM
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
500 Odor Street
Arcadia, Oklahoma
Rev. Allen R. Threatt, III, Pastor

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