Joseph Wilfred Kelley

Waynesville, Joseph Wilfred Kelley, age 94, passed away on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at Haywood Lodge and Retirement Center.

A lifelong resident of Haywood County, he was one of three sons of the late David Donaldson Kelley and Mary Gordon Kelley.  He was preceded in death by his two brothers, J.D. and Jack Kelley.

Joe proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  After his tour of duty, he worked in the Maintenance Department at Champion Paper for 37 years.  Joe lived life to the fullest and actively looked for ways to better himself like learning auctioneering, dancing, and getting his Commercial Driver’s License.  A man of many interests, he enjoyed golf, gardening, baking, playing music, and singing with his brothers.  Having fun times with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren was of great importance to him.  Joe will be fondly remembered for his quest to find good deals at the grocery store.

Joe is survived by his dear wife of 69 years, Katherine Jackson Kelley; two daughters, Shirley Franklin (Doug) and Mary Jo Reece (Keith); sister-in-law, Vivian Kelley; four grandchildren, Patricia Franklin (Will Ross), Carol Cook (Brian), Jenny Revis Todd (Matthew), and Andy Revis (Nicole).  Joe was close to Mason, Hayden, Addie, and Sam, and had other numerous great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 in the Waynesville chapel of Wells Funeral Home with Reverend Jeff Norris officiating.  Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 100 S. Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786.