Wilton Bernard Kelly

Wilton Bernard Kelly was born on August 16, 1939, to John Willie Kelly, Sr. and Lucy Jane (Gaskins) Kelly in Westmoreland, VA and peacefully passed from this life on May 15, 2023, in Colorado Springs, CO. Wilton was one of five children: Ida Mae, John Jr, Linda, and Arlene. The Kelly family relocated to Ambler, PA with a final residence in Ft Washington, PA. Wilton was well known to his friends and family as either “Bernard” or “Choppy”. Wilton enjoyed playing football growing up and participated as a golf caddy alongside his father and brother. Wilton graduated from Upper Dublin High School in 1957 and made the decision to serve his country by enlisting into the Air Force on January 4, 1962.

During his time in the Air Force, he met his beloved wife Chong Nae Yi while stationed at Osan Air Force Base in South Korea. The two wedded on October 19, 1979, at the American Embassy in Seoul, South Korea. They both connected over their love for golf. Wilton served 26 years in the Air Force and retired as a Master Sergeant in beautiful Colorado Springs, CO. After retiring from the Air Force, Wilton continued working, this time as a driver in the transportation industry. He went on to receive outstanding federal service awards at the Air Force Academy where he then decided to enjoy retirement life fully.

Wilton had a passion for cars, golf, cruising in his Pontiacs, working on the yard, and above all else time spent with his loved ones and friends. No one would be considered a stranger in his eyes as he always initiated conversations with anyone he crossed paths with. His love for the Lord was displayed daily, even into his last days on earth. Despite the obstacles of dementia, Wilton would continue to recite his daily prayer.

Wilton was preceded in death by his parents John and Lucy Kelly, and his sister Ida Mae who passed at infancy. Those left behind to cherish Wilton’s memory are his loving wife Chong Kelly, his three sons: Todd (Jacqueline) Harrison, Michael (Brittany) Kelly, Christian Kelly, and daughter Naomi (Dylan) Anderson, as well as, 6 grandchildren, 1 great grandson, and 2 future grandchildren due July 2023. He is also survived by his brother John W Kelly, Jr., of Glenside, PA, and sisters Linda Kelly, of Horsham, PA, and Arlene Kelly of Landsdale, PA.

A viewing will be held at Swan-Law Funeral Directors 501 Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 on Wednesday May 24, 2023, from 9:00am-10:00am, with a funeral service immediately following. A committal service at Pikes Peak National Cemetery at 10545 Drennan Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80925 with full United States Air Force Honors will be held at 12:00-12:30pm.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MtViewMortuary.com for the Kelly family.