Grace Kelsey

Grace Marie Kelsey was born on May 21, 1923, in Trinidad, Colorado. From the age of six, she was raised by loving parents, John W. and Mamie Mc-Coskey on a beautiful farm outside Howard, Kansas. During her childhood, she developed her significant musical talents, singing and playing the piano and organ. After graduating from Howard High School, she worked with her father, serving as Deputy Treasurer for Elk County, Kansas. She met and corresponded with Oren Kelsey Jr. during his military service during WWII, and they married upon his return from Italy after being wounded in 1944. They remained devoted to one another for 73 years.

Grace and Oren raised four children, moving around the country as his profession required. Following Oren’s retirement in 1983, they moved to Many, Louisiana, to be close to two of their daughters and four of their grandchildren. Grace devoted herself to Many’s First United Methodist Church, serving for many years as organist and member of the choir, sharing her considerable musical talents with the congregation. She also participated in the United Methodist Women’s organization, which she had joined as a charter member in 1940. She was also active in the Many Lioness/Lions Club. The family would like to thank the staff of Sabine Retirement and Rehabilitation Center for taking such good care of Grace in her final years.

Grace was preceded in death by her husband, Oren Kelsey, son, Steven Kelsey, daughter, Janice Parker, and son-in-law, William Boone. She is survived by beloved daughters, Gloria Goldman and Rebecca Boone, 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Many First United Methodist Church.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 2:00 PM at First Methodist Church of Many with Rev. Ray Spiller officiating. Burial will follow in the Many Cemetery. Visitation will begin on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at 1:00 PM at First Methodist Church of Many.