James Jeffrey Kelley

OPLIN: James Jeffery Kelley, 62, passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2023 at his house in Oplin. A visitation will be held on Friday, February 3, 2023, from 5 to 7pm at Fry-Smith Funeral Home in Tuscola.

Jeff was born on January 9, 1961, in Abilene to James and Mary Ann (Dooley) Kelley. Jeff attended Jim Ned schools and graduated in 1979. While in school Jeff became a sports fan that started with little league and ended with basketball. He was a member of FFA showing pigs. His friends in school nicknamed him "Fire" or "Red" because of the Kelley family's red hair.
He married Deadra Whitford on January 11, 1992, in Tuscola at the Westside Church of Christ.

Jeff worked several jobs from West Texas Iron Works, construction, welding, counter sales and Morrison Supply, then to the job he loved the most, rural mail carrier. He knew each and every one of his postal customers well. When his health forced him into retirement it was then he found out how much he missed them.
When the Jim Ned Lady Indians basketball team had a game he was always there. He was one of their biggest supporters. When the basketball season ended, he could be found at the Jim Ned Baseball field. Jeff enjoyed water skiing, classic rock, the Astros, showing his love for his family by pestering them. He was crazy about his grandsons he called "The Boys" which everyone one else called the Sarten Twins.

He is survived by his wife Deadra Kelley of Oplin: daughter, Jenny Sarten and husband Rusty Miller of Tuscola; daughter, Juliann Kelley of Oplin; parents, James and Mary Ann Kelley of Tuscola, sister April Brooks and husband Wes of Tuscola; grandsons, "The Boys" Brayden and Cayden, nieces and nephews, Ashley Rhea and husband Dusty; Kolby Kelley and wife Shawna; Bretni Cope and husband Chisum; Weston Brooks and wife Megan; and Jaycee Brooks. As well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded by his grandparents, and his brother, Jody Kelley.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Jim Ned athletics, 441 Graham, Tuscola, Tx 79562.
Condolences can be left at www.fry-smith.com.

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