Sterling Edward Kelley

July 11, 1946-May 9, 2021

In loving memory of Sterling E. Kelley Jr., who died suddenly Sunday, May 9, 2021, at the age of 74. He was grieving the death of his son, Sterling E. Kelley III, who preceded him in death the month before, on April 18.

The older Sterling was a gentle soul and an avid gardener, with a sense of humor that always came with a smile. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a proud son of Gonzales.

He moved to the New Orleans area in his 20s with his first wife, Vicki Jean, (who was from Port Allen, Texas). He never left New Orleans, falling in love with the food, music and dancing.

Sterling was a retiree from the Illinois Central Gulf Railroad and from the Louisiana State hospital system. Although Sterling’s first wife, Vicki Jean Riley, passed over 20 years ago, he was lucky enough to find love again.

He died believing that a man’s handshake and word meant something. He would say “Be kind to each other and tend the land.”

He is survived in Louisiana by his wife of 19 years: Patsy Jean Kelley; his son: Brandon Kelley; his grandson: Logan Kelley; and his granddaughter: Isabella Kelley. He is survived in Texas by his brother: David B. Kelley; and sister: Laurie Tayler.

He will be missed.

He is loved.