Jessie Lee Kelley

Retired Army Sergeant First Class, Jessie Lee Kelley, a proud US Army Veteran passed away peacefully on September 16, 2023, in El Paso, Texas.  He was born March 12, 1934, in Spartanburg, SC to his parents James T. and Gertrude (Jones) Kelly who preceded him in death.   

Jessie was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Melvin Kelly, James Kelly Jr., and Dupree Kelly; and his faithful companion Pee Wee. 

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Francisca; his children Suzette Kelley of El Paso, TX, Alphonso Kelley and his wife Maria of San Antonio, TX, Charlotte Kelley of El Paso, TX, Alma Rios and her husband Sal of San Antonio, TX, Benjamin Carreon of San Antonio, TX,  Marcus Uthmann and his wife Joanna of Hamburg, Germany, Jessie Lee Kelley, Jr and his wife Alisha of El Paso, TX; sister Annie Pearl Moss of Spartanburg, SC and sister Thelma Kelly of Spartanburg, SC; 9 grandchildren, M. Denise Perry, Christopher Mitchell-Kelley, Bernard and Ken-Lee Wah, Tiffany Kelley, Christabel Redwine, Brianna and Dantes Rios, and Myles Lee Kelley; and 19 great-grandchildren, with a host of nieces and nephews.

Jessie was a 22-year decorated, combat veteran of the US Army who served in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War. During his time of service, Jessie received the National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Good Conduct Medal (7 Awards), the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Leaf, which is awarded for feats of valor or heroism in combat with hostile forces. 

Jessie had a sense of humor and a natural charisma to make friends no matter the situation.  A man of many stories and talents.  One of his best-known talents was his skill in the kitchen.  Jessie was known for the best brisket and potato salad around and was always generous with sharing his love of cooking with friends and family.  In addition to his love of cooking, Jessie was also known for his hobby of collecting brass. He has an extensive brass collection with more than 200 pieces. 

The Viewing will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 22, 2023, at Sunset Funeral Home at 4631 Hondo Pass, El Paso, TX.  Burial with graveside services will take place at Allen Chapel United Methodist Church in Spartanburg, SC the following week.