October 18, 1937 - March 24, 2026
Ronnie Leon O’Kelley, a devoted Christian, loving husband and father passed away on March 24, 2026, at the age of 88.
He was born on October 18, 1937, in Florence, Alabama. Ronnie lived a life grounded in faith, kindness, and unwavering love for those closest to him. He was a long time member and leader at Chickamauga Church of Christ. His relationship with God was the foundation of his life, guiding his actions, words, and the way he cared for others.
He honorably served his country both active and reserves in the United States Air Force. He retired from TVA in 2004. He found joy in his menagerie of pets he kept throughout his life, travel, scuba diving, naps, University of Tennessee football, coffee, woodworking, and desserts of all sorts. He especially treasured the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and loved ones.
Above all else, he fiercely loved his family. He was a steady presence, a source of strength, and a constant example of what it means to love unconditionally. Whether offering guidance, sharing wisdom, or simply being present, he made those around him feel valued and supported. His legacy is one of faith, devotion, and deep abiding love.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Grady and Lorene O’Kelley and sister Virginia Ray Johnson of Florence, Alabama.
He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Clara Norine O’Kelley, his son Tommy O’Kelley (Monna), daughter Sean Bell (David), three grandsons, Conner Bell, Dylan O’Kelley (Katra Kelly), Cooper Bell (Sandra) and four great grandchildren, Cambree, Cohen, Cadley, and Callum Bell, two nephews and one niece.
A service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Chickamauga Church of Christ, with Min. Phil Burse officiating. Interment will follow in the Chickamauga City Cemetery. Visitation with family will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, at the church and after 10:00 am on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Chickamauga Church of Christ missionary fund.
Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Home-J. Avery Bryan Chapel, Chickamauga.
He was born on October 18, 1937, in Florence, Alabama. Ronnie lived a life grounded in faith, kindness, and unwavering love for those closest to him. He was a long time member and leader at Chickamauga Church of Christ. His relationship with God was the foundation of his life, guiding his actions, words, and the way he cared for others.
He honorably served his country both active and reserves in the United States Air Force. He retired from TVA in 2004. He found joy in his menagerie of pets he kept throughout his life, travel, scuba diving, naps, University of Tennessee football, coffee, woodworking, and desserts of all sorts. He especially treasured the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and loved ones.
Above all else, he fiercely loved his family. He was a steady presence, a source of strength, and a constant example of what it means to love unconditionally. Whether offering guidance, sharing wisdom, or simply being present, he made those around him feel valued and supported. His legacy is one of faith, devotion, and deep abiding love.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Grady and Lorene O’Kelley and sister Virginia Ray Johnson of Florence, Alabama.
He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Clara Norine O’Kelley, his son Tommy O’Kelley (Monna), daughter Sean Bell (David), three grandsons, Conner Bell, Dylan O’Kelley (Katra Kelly), Cooper Bell (Sandra) and four great grandchildren, Cambree, Cohen, Cadley, and Callum Bell, two nephews and one niece.
A service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Chickamauga Church of Christ, with Min. Phil Burse officiating. Interment will follow in the Chickamauga City Cemetery. Visitation with family will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, at the church and after 10:00 am on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Chickamauga Church of Christ missionary fund.
Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Home-J. Avery Bryan Chapel, Chickamauga.
Funeral Home in Charge
Wilson Funeral Home – Chickamauga Chapel
215 Lee Ave
Chickamauga, GA 30707
215 Lee Ave
Chickamauga, GA 30707