Born on July 23, 1936, in Waco, Texas, Gene was the son of Travis (Eugene) and Bernice (Wayne) Kelley. He graduated from Jefferson Davis High School in Houston and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a minor in Physics from the University of Houston. Following his education, he proudly served in the U.S. Army, where he developed a strong sense of duty and camaraderie. Gene spent many years in the drafting industry, ultimately earning the title of Senior Piping Designer, renowned for his unwavering work ethic and commitment to excellence.
As a member of the First Baptist Church of Clute, Gene found joy in his faith and was actively involved in various church activities. An avid aviation enthusiast, he was a certified flight instructor and was passionate about flying RC aircraft. He also enjoyed a lifelong love for woodcarving.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Travis and Bernice Kelley; his sister, Barbara Holcombe and her husband, Jack Holcombe; his beloved wife, Betty Lou Kelley; his daughter, Kimberly Dawn Kelley; and his brother in law, Bill Barron.
He is survived by his sister, Joyce Barron; his sons and their wives, Scott and Heather Kelley, and Jason and Richanne Kelley; and his eight cherished grandchildren: Dylan Kelley, Ryan, Kyle, and Tyler Chapman, Wyatt and Rylee Kelley and Iain and Aiden Kelley, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Visitation with the family was held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Waltrip Funeral Directors, 1415 Campbell Road in Houston. Gene's internment took place at 1:00 p.m. in the Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive in Houston, where he was laid to rest alongside his wife.
