David Carl Kelley was born on July 7, 1950 in Richmond, TX to Dee Canti and Maebell Kelley. He later moved to Thompson Chapel and was raised by Robert and Annie Kelley. David became a part of the loving Thompson Chapel family, which has now been carried through several generations.

David attended M.R. Wood and graduated from John Foster Dulles High School, Class of 1969.

David later met and married Mattie Kelley. With this union, he was blessed with a devoted daughter, Darnisha (Buffy) Kelley, and the entire Smith family, who he loved and cherished as his own family until his final days.

David and Mattie later welcomed their second daughter, Devin Kelley. Devin and Buffy were extremely devoted to their father, as he was to them. They remained by his side until his very last day of life. David was an amazing father who showed up for his daughters in every way that he possibly could at all times. He was their safe place and will forever remain in their hearts.

When one would think no greater love could be shown, David became a "PaPa" to two beautiful grand daughters (Teya Kelley and Brooke Holman), and one grandson (Jordan Holman), who David requested to be named after his beloved brother, James. In PaPa's eyes, not one of them could do any wrong.....especially Jordan James.

David leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews and even some of his children's childhood friends, who still lovingly refer to him as "Uncle David".

We will all carry his memory forward with laughter, love, strength, and gratitude forever.