Daniel (Danny) Kelley

Danny Kelley was born on Valentine’s Day in 1966, to Frank Kelley and Angie Defeo—a fitting start for a man whose heart and warmth touched everyone he met. Danny was truly one of a kind. His gentle nature, quick wit, and easy smile had a way of making people feel better about themselves, and that gift stayed with him throughout his life.

As the second youngest of five siblings and an Air Force brat, Danny grew up with adventure in his blood. His father’s service took the family to far-off places, giving Danny a chance to experience life beyond the U.S. Those early years shaped his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Danny didn’t need extravagance to be happy—just a baloney sandwich, a cold soda, and Alabama football on TV, and he was content.

But simplicity never meant small dreams. Danny was a standout quarterback at D’Iberville High School, breaking records and leading his team with grit and grace. He carried that talent to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, where he guided the Bulldogs to a National Championship—a moment that earned him a place in the MGCCC Hall of Fame, one of his proudest achievements.

Danny’s success continued off the field. After earning his bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy from the Medical University of South Carolina, he built a career defined by compassion and excellence. Patients would wait weeks just to have Danny as their therapist—a testament to his skill and the kindness that made him unforgettable.

He loved fishing, hiking, football, and “junking,” and he never lost his sense of fun. In his later years, Danny became the life of the party at Wiggins Retirement Center, charming the ladies and bringing laughter wherever he went.

Danny was preceded in death by his father Frank Kelley, sister Teresa Kelley Banisch, and his Aunt Mary Dixon.

He is survived by his son Andrew Kelley; sister Nancy Reyes and her husband Gil; brothers Greg and Jeff Kelley; and many nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward.

As 2 Corinthians 5:8 reminds us: “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” Danny’s earthly journey has ended, but his spiritual has only just begun!

Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m on Saturday November 22, 2025 at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home on Pass Road. Funeral services at 12:00 p.m. Burial at D'Iberville Memorial Park to follow. 

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Daniel Kelley.