Leonard Cunningham Kelley

Leonard Kelley, age 83, a longtime resident of Ocean Springs, MS, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

 Lenny, or “Kelley” as he was best known, was born in Bankston, AL on New Years Eve in 1940.  After high school, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps, serving in the Vietnam War. The Marine Corps allowed him to travel around the world, seeing and experiencing many exciting cultures. Leonard was proud to be a Marine and serve his country.  In 1966, Leonard married Joyce Malone after meeting in Memphis, TN.  Kelley was discharged from the military in 1979 and moved his family to Ocean Springs. Kelley worked for several companies and finally retired from Superior Optics. After retirement, Kelley enjoyed fishing and visiting the local watering holes around town. His days were spent playing cards, completing crossword puzzles, catching his favorite TV shows, and visiting with friends. Days before his departure, he shared his best pieces of advice to family that they will carry with them forever. 

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel Leonard and Delta Maddox; his sisters, June Patterson and Betty Greene; and daughters, Lisa Kelley Conners and Julie Kelley. Kelley leaves behind his devoted wife, Joyce; sister, Susan Nichols; daughter, Connie Tartini (Michael) of Philadelphia, PA; son, Joey Kelley (Leslie); granddaughters, Caroline and Emma Tartini; grandsons, Michael Tartini and Jacob Kelley; along with beloved friends.

 Visitation will be Monday, April 8,^, 2024, from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 1:30 p.m. at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home in Ocean Springs. Interment will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Leonard’s memory. 

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Leonard Cunningham Kelley.