Charles Kelly

Major Charles Ray Kelly of Holly Creek, left this life on March 11, 2023 in Idabel, OK at the age
of 88. He was surrounded by his loving family.
While growing up in Idabel he played football, ran track, and was a member of the high school
drama club. He loved hunting, fishing, playing golf, and just about any other activity as long as
it was outdoors. Charles was of the Baptist faith and was baptised at the First Baptist Church of
Idabel.
He is preceded in death by a brother, James Kelly and a son, Charles Michael Kelly.
Charles is survived by his wife of 69 years, Eleanor Juanita Kelly (Nita to everyone), his sister
Martha Sue Gaines of Piedmont, OK and his children: son, Mitch Kelly and wife Ginger of
Idabel; daughters, Cynthia Woodsong of Hillsborough NC, Lisa Watkins and husband Fred of
Idabel, Julie Molyneau of Holly Creek, and Joanna Kelly of Holly Creek. He also leaves his
grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a host of many other family and
friends.
Charles was a highly decorated military officer. He served 22 years in the army during which he
completed three tours of duty in Vietnam and one tour of duty in Laos. He was Special Forces
and one of the original Green Berets.
After retiring from the army, the family returned to Idabel where he spent 12 years working as a
Park Ranger for Beavers Bend State Park. He also owned and operated his own bulldozing
business. He was proud to say he dug the pools for Red Slough.
He will be greatly missed.
The family will hold a private ceremony at a later date.

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