James Arlen Kelley, better known as Jeff, passed away on January 9, 2024. He was born June 9, 1938, to D.O. and Irene Kelley in Nacogdoches, Texas. Jeff attended East Texas State University where he studied business. He met his beloved wife, Piddle, in Sherman, with whom he had two children, Jeff and Kris. Their family lived in many places around the country, including Austin, TX, Lexington, KY, Overland Park, KS, Ridgefield, CT, and finally, Plano, TX.

Jeff was a man of faith, a Mason, an IBMer, a pilot, a member of the Quiet Birdmen, a Cowboys fan, a son, husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. He took the time to make deep connections with people, a talent not everyone possesses.

Jeff loved airplanes and flying, and the community of friends that came with it. He enjoyed reading great novels and listening to old country music like Willie Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker. Once he went to see Jerry Jeff perform at the Venetian Room. He had so much fun he bought another ticket and went back the second night. There is also the story of how Willie’s cowboy hat was thrown into the audience at the end of a show, straight into Jeff’s hands. That very hat adorned the top of his family Christmas tree every year since. *Jeff pictured in Willie's hat*

Jeff was raised a Protestant but with the blessing of his family, he became a Catholic in his late 40’s. Jeff’s job took him all over the world. He loved to tell stories about his travels and had a way of communicating with people that made them feel important, capable, and worthy. He was a loving and protective man who always told his family he loved them better than chicken.

Jeff is survived by his children, Jeff Kelley and Kristen Hyden; his daughter-in-law, Jackie; and his four grandchildren, Melissa and Reed Kelley and Sarah and Emma Hyden. He is preceded in death by his parents, Irene and D.O. Kelley; his wife, Marilin (Piddle) Kelley; and his son-in-law, Scott Hyden.

The family invites you to a Visitation at Berkshire Chapel, 9073 Berkshire Drive, Frisco, Texas, on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 p.m.  A Graveside Service will be held at West Hill Cemetery in Sherman, Texas, on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.