Ronald Veran Kelly

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald Veran Kelly, who left this world on April 16, 2026, at the age of 68. He was born on October 7, 1957, to Maurice Kelly and Gwenetta Maxine Tillis in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Ron lived a life rich in love, laughter, and dedication. He graduated from Northwest Classen High School, where he developed a strong passion for basketball, playing during his high school years. Known for his confidence on the court, Ron often jokingly referred to himself as “Machine Gun Kelly”—a nickname that captured both his competitive spirit and his lively personality. He later attended the University of Oklahoma, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business before pursuing a career that began in the oil field with Exxon.

Ron found his true calling in the early 1990s when he became a licensed funeral director. He devoted over 40 years to serving families in their time of need, making a lasting impact on countless lives. For 20 years, he served as the Location Manager for Lincoln Funeral Home in Dallas, before returning to hands-on service with Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in 2014. Ron was also a mentor to many in the funeral industry—both those just starting out and seasoned professionals—always willing to share advice, insight, and methods to elevate the level of service provided to families. He was known for his strong sense of discipline and professionalism, often reminding others, “To be early is to be on time, and to be on time is to be late.” Ron’s unwavering commitment to his work was matched only by his love for those he cared for.

Ron shared a life with his wife, Deborah Nelson, whom he married in Houston, Texas, and to this union their son, Ryan, was born. Later, he found happiness again with Nicole Walton, whom he married in Oklahoma City in 2000. As a father, Ron was extremely loyal and watchful over Ryan and took immense pride in being “Pu-Paw” to his granddaughters, whose photos he proudly shared with anyone who would look. Ron had an infectious personality and warmth that made friends wherever he went. Known as a true “Grillmaster,” his BBQ gatherings brought laughter and love to the table. In his leisure time, Ron also enjoyed hunting and golfing, finding joy in the outdoors and in friendly competition. He was also known for his quick wit and playful spirit—a natural prankster who kept everyone on their toes, always making sure no one got too comfortable without a good laugh. If you were on the receiving end of his infamous “Towel Pop,” you knew you were one of his favorites.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church Hamilton Park in Richardson, Texas, Ron was respected for his commitment to faith and community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure to know him, including family, friends, and colleagues who were touched by his kindness and generosity. Ron will forever be remembered as a devoted son, loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His absence will be felt deeply, but the memories we hold dear will keep his spirit alive in our hearts.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, Maurice Kelly, Sr.; Stepsister, Sharon Bennett; brother-in-law, Marshall Owens; cousin, Raymond McDonald.

Ron is survived by his son, Ryan (Hannah) Houston, Texas; granddaughters, Aria Kelly and Aliya Kelly, Houston, Texas; mother, Gwenetta Bennett (Otis) Choctaw, Oklahoma; Stepmother, Carolyn Kelly, Oklahoma City, Ok; brothers, Maurice Kelly, Jr. (Laurie) Seattle, Washington, Kaleb Kelly, Seattle, Washington; sister, Angela Owens,Wichita, Kansas; stepsisters; Denise Cammon (Jethro), Oklahoma City, Ok, Regina Bennett, Oklahoma City, Ok; Stepbrothers; Lee Bennett, Oklahoma City, Ok, Glen Bennett (Felisha), Oklahoma City, Ok; aunt, Pearlie Miles; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other loving family members and friends.

We invite everyone whose heart Ron touched, to remember, celebrate, and reflect on the life of an extraordinary man.