Jackie Kelley

Our bodies will return to the dust of the earth, and the breath of life will go back to God, who gave it to us. Ecclesiastes 12:7.

With these words from the Bible, we mourn the passing of Jackie Kelley, who returned to his Heavenly home on September 22, 2023. Jackie was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and a cherished member of the Knoxville community.

Jackie was born in Knoxville, Tennessee, on January 5, 1942. He was raised in North Knoxville and went to Fulton High School. Jackie went on to become a licensed professional roofer and the owner of his own roofing business.

Jackie was a kind and compassionate person who always placed others before himself. He was always willing to help a needy friend and was always present for his family. Jackie was a devout Christian whose faith was fundamental throughout his life. He spent most of his time outside, enjoying working in his yard and being surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Jackie will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Georgia Kelley, and his siblings James Kelley, Joan Cabe, and Joyce Lane. He is survived by his brother Robert Kelley, wife Francis Kelley, daughter and son in law Deborah and Neal Conard, two sons and daughter in laws Robert and Cheryl Kelley, and James and Shirley Kelley, ten grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, with two more arriving soon, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Jackie's funeral will be held at Mynatt Funeral Home in Fountain City, on Thursday, September 28, 2023. Between 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., we will receive family and friends and the funeral service will begin at 7:00 p.m.; followed by Jackie's burial on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at Highland Memorial Cemetery on Sutherland Avenue. Everyone is welcome to attend. 

I know that my Redeemer lives and that He will stand upon the earth in the end. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes—I, and not another—He for me, and my eyes will see Him. Job 19:25–27.

This verse gives us hope that, even though Jackie is no longer with us, he is now in a better place. He is with God and will be reunited with us one day. 

May Jackie's memory be a blessing to us all.

We would like to thank Francis Williams, UT hospice, and also special recognition for nurse Dee, for their compassionate and dedicated care of our loved one during his final days. These people went above and beyond to make him comfortable and to support our family during this difficult time. We are truly grateful for their kindness and support.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.mynattfh.com