Esther Marie Kelley

Esther Marie Kelley of Emporia passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2020 at her home.  She was 99.

Marie was born on January 26, 1921 in Emporia, Kansas the daughter of Charles M. and Esther M. Thornton Fowler.  She married Gale W. Kelley on June 11, 1950 in Emporia.  He died on November 3, 2019 in Emporia.

Surviving family members include: son, Larry D. Kelley of Emporia; daughter, Cheryl A. Arb and husband Dennis of Emporia; grandchildren, Jason Arb and wife Renee, and Erica Spillman and husband Lucas both of Emporia; great-grandchildren, Blaine and Liam Arb.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sisters Erma C. Rich and Wanda L. Gibbs.

Marie worked for Kansas Electric Power.  She was a member of the First Christian Church.  D.F.W at the church.  Miriam Chapter of the Eastern Star and a 50-year member.

She was a loving and caring daughter, wife, mom, grandma and great-grandma. Affectionately known as “granny go-go”, she was a busy homemaker and a fantastic cook. She would start her day at 4 am and wake us up to the smell of bacon cooking. When she wasn’t busy in the kitchen, she would be watching her grandchildren play or sit on the floor and let them hop on the couch behind and help her put curlers in her hair. She was the best at tucking you in for bed, with a kiss on the forehead, followed by “sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite”. She wouldn’t let you leave without a hug; she’d always have her arms open wide. And for being such a little person, she gave the biggest hugs! Marie will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 7, 2020 at the Patio Garden, Memorial Lawn Cemetery.  Memorials to the Emporia Friends of the Zoo can be sent in care of the funeral home.