Robert Kelley, Sr.

On Friday, December 9, 2022, Robert Daniel Kelley Sr. peacefully departed this life at the age of 79. Robert was born in Brooklyn, New York on November 21, 1943, to the late Queen Esther McGee Kelley and Boykin Hunter and adopted by his stepfather Ernest Kelley.

Robert grew up in the Bronx and graduated in 1961 from Cardinal Hayes Catholic High School. He joined the United States Navy in 1962 and served in the Vietnam War. After his honorable military service, he worked for the United States Postal Service and soon after was employed by the New York City Transit Authority from which he retired after 24 years as a train operator.

Robert had a passion for fishing and would seek out fishing trips to various places during his free time. He also loved cooking and would bless his family and friends with delicious, hand-crafted dishes on every occasion. In addition, Robert was an avid card player, who partnered with his wife Carolyn as members of the Trump Tight Bid Whist Club while living in Texas.

Robert married Carolyn Joyce Kelley on July 18, 1990. Together they traveled and established homes in Manhattan, New York; Spring, Texas and finally in Concord, North Carolina. Robert enjoyed life! He fished, cooked, volunteered and was willing to help anyone he could. He truly adored spending time with his family and friends, laughing and playing games. His life was a life well-lived, and he will be greatly missed.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Carolyn; his children Raul Kelley; Miguel Perry and daughter-in-law Olympia; Robin Green and son-in-law Markco; Robert Kelley Jr. and daughter-in-law Fanique; grandchildren Jasmine, Ananda, Rachel, Phasja, Rayonce, Madeleine, Pharyn, Jaiden, Giselle, Josh, and Elizabeth; and brother-in-law Robert Pearman. He is further survived by a host of sorrowing family and friends.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Friday, December 23, 2022 at Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord is serving the Kelley family