Jerry Paul Kelley, 72, of Sedalia, died Wednesday, February 20, 2013, at the University of Kansas Medical Center.   He was born January 5, 1941, in Sedalia, son of Chester Paul and Lorena Cecelia Jerriell Kelley.   Jerry lived life to the fullest and was always ready to lend a helping hand.  In earlier years, he took care of his neighbors’ yards, often without taking pay.   He had an unusual sense of humor that was delightful and fun, brightening the day for others.   He was peace-loving and devoted to those he counted as his good friends. When his mother was placed in a nursing home for several years, he walked a long distance each day to visit her, no matter what the weather was or how he himself was feeling.   He was generous, kind, considerate, and especially protective of children.   He was the one the family counted on to remember dates and events. He had an amazing memory.  He also enjoyed listening to music and singing.   Holidays, family reunions, and company were important to Jerry. The telephone calls he made regularly to his sister, Colleen, will be greatly missed, as well as the calls he made on birthdays to others.   He was loved and adored by not only his family, but also friends, neighbors, and all who were fortunate to have known him.   He was a member of the First Pentecostal Church in Sedalia.   Jerry was a bright and shining light and now the space where he existed will be dimmed.   Surviving are a sister, Colleen Riggs, of Independence, MO; two brothers, John William Kelley, of Kansas City, MO, and James Cole Kelley, of Hermitage, MO; a sister-in-law, Jane Kelley; brothers-in-law, Albert Riggs and Wilbur Fletcher; 15 nieces and nephews; 14 great nieces and nephews; cousins; and close friends, June Jordan and Vincent Crook.   In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Bonnie Jean Kelley, Linda Cheryl Kelley and Rene Delores Fletcher; and brothers, Danny Kelley and David Clark Kelley.   Graveside services will be held at a later date.   Arrangements are in the care of Heckart Funeral Home.

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