Jesse Royce Kelley

Jesse Royce Kelley, born June 30, 1921, son of Jesse James Kelley of Lockhart, Texas, and Fanny Minerva McMahan, of McMahan, Texas, passed away at the age of 87, on Tuesday, April 7, 2009, in San Antonio, Texas.

He is survived by his wife, Dorin Kelley; sons: Kenneth Ingram and wife, Melissa, and Glenn Ingram and wife, Maria Theresa; grandsons: Steven Ingram, John Cor

ona, and David Corona; great-grandson, Diego Corona; brother, Jesse Lynn Kelley and wife, Carmen; sister, JoAnn DeLisle and husband, Charles; and many cousins and friends.

Royce was a 1940 graduate of Lockhart High School where he was a star on the football team. After high school, Royce joined the Navy, serving in World War II. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Gold Star for distinguishing himself by heroic achievement. Royce was wounded in the assault on Saipan in June 1944 and refused to be evacuated. He not only treated the wounded under enemy fire, but also aided in the salvage of much needed medical gear lost in the enemy action.

After a long career in sales, Royce retired due to failing eyesight. He conquered the obstacle and at the age of 75, took computer classes at the Lighthouse for the Blind and ultimately managed the front office of his wife’s nutrition counseling business. Always moving forward, he was an inspiration to all and a joy to family and friends.

Services were at the First United Methodist Church of Lockhart at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2009, with Rev. Robert Hahn officiating.