Christopher “Ace” Kelley, 36, of Gravette, Arkansas, passed away on May 30, 2026. His time here was far too short, but the legacy he leaves behind is deep, wide, and carried in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Chris was born on February 10, 1990, in Rogers, Arkansas, and from an early age he showed the kind of drive and determination that would define his life. He was the kind of man who never slowed down and never hesitated to help anyone who needed him. Whether he was farming, serving several communities as a police officer, or helping others on his own time, Chris poured himself fully into his work. He touched countless lives simply by showing up, day after day, with nothing more than his bare hands, his skill set, and his passion and heart.
What people will remember most is how deeply he cared for others. Chris had a way of making people feel valued and supported. He didn’t talk much about what he did for others—he just did it. His kindness was steady, his generosity was unparalleled, and he never met a stranger. He built everything he touched with his bare hands and his whole heart.
He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Brandi Kelley, the love of his life and his closest companion. He is also survived by his grandma, Jeanie Easley; his parents, David and Carla Bailey; his step-grandma, Brenda Bailey; his brothers, Jeremy Rhodes (Paulee) and Timothy Gall (Samatha); his nephew, Cooper Rhodes; his uncle, Jeff Kelley; his brothers-in-law, Brad Hendren (Amanda) and Brian Hendren; his nieces; and extended family. He is also survived by his best friend and cousin, Justin “Oscar” Martinez.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald “Ron” Kelley; his maternal grandpa, Jerry Easley; his paternal grandma, Leta Willis; and his step-grandpa, Terry Bailey.
