Susie Jane Kelley, 90, of Bella Vista, AR passed away peacefully surrounded by her husband and family on September 26, 2022.

Sue was born in 1932 in Arkansas City, Kansas to John and Susie Stacy. She was the youngest of five children on a dairy and wheat farm. She attended a one-room country school until she moved into town to finish high school. In 1950 she attended community college working part-time as a telephone switchboard operator. Later, she transferred to Kansas State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics.

While attending KSU, she met the love of her life, Tom Kelley. They were married on March 7, 1954. They shared over 67 years in this loving union and were blessed with three children (Connie, Cindy & Mike), five granddaughters and one great granddaughter.

From 1957-1994 the Kelley Family called many places home as they moved around for Tom's job. They lived in Des Moines, IA, Sioux Falls, SD, Lancaster, CA, Urbandale, IA, Pittsburgh, PA and finished back in Urbandale, IA. During these years Sue worked as a home economist, seamstress, Jr high home economics teacher, and real estate agent all while raising her three kids.

In 1994 Tom and Sue retired and made the move to Bella Vista, AR to build their dream home on the lake. Tom and Sue spent their time golfing, hiking, exploring the Ozarks, boating, traveling the world on river boat cruises, and visiting/hosting family and friends.

Community was a big part of Sue's life. She served as a 4-H leader, county fair judge, church volunteer, Horses for Healing NWA volunteer, Helping Hands volunteer and volunteered with other local organizations. She was a proud member of several Bella Vista golf groups, bridge groups, social clubs and quilting groups. She ran the Ladies Putt Savers golf group for many years. She was a founding member of the Dirty Dozen, social group. In her 28 years as a Bella Vista resident, she made several treasured friendships and memories.

Sue is survived by her husband, Tom; daughters, Connie Kelley of Bentonville, AR, Cindy (Larry) Gessner of Overland Park, KS; son, Mike (Peggy) Kelley of West Des Moines, IA; grandchild, Kelly (Matt) East; great granddaughter, Ellie East; grandchildren, Eliza Kelley, Lauren Gessner, Maggie Kelley, Elisa Kelley; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

Sue is preceded in death by her parents, siblings, Forrest, John Junior, Gertrude, Max and Margie.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 4:00pm at the Bella Vista Community Church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences may be made at funeralmation.com