Carl "KP" J. Kelley

Carl J. “KP” Kelley Jr., age 85 of Covington, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2023 at his home.  Carl was born in Dayton on July 17, 1938 to the (late) Carl Jefferson Sr. & Hazel M. (Idle) Kelley; was a U.S. Navy Veteran; retired as an Oven Operator at A.O. Smith with 33 years of service and was also a member of their Safety Committee; played in a softball league in his younger years; life member of Covington AMVETS Post #66, being an All State Commander in 1987-88; a member of the Covington VFW Post #4235; a lifetime member of the Wapakoneta Eagles Aerie #691; a member of the Covington Eagles Aerie #3998; enjoyed camping and stayed at Cozy Campground at St. Mary Lake; loved fishing; and had many trophies from playing horseshoes.  Preceded in death by his parents; his love of his life, his wife, Diane (Dyke) Keller of 52 years, who passed away in 2016; grandson, Joshua Kent Hitchcock; brother, Danny Kelley; and four sisters, Ada Marlow, Mary Wilson, Sandy Bond, and Carla Kelley.  Carl is survived by his two daughters and son-in-law, Sherry Smith of Frankfort, KY and Charlene & Scott Abernathy of Covington; three grandchildren, Chad & Amber Kelley of Pleasant Hill, Diana Smith and Harley Smith, both of KY; eight great-grandchildren, Tryston Kelley, Aiden Kelley, Hailey Hitchcock, Kensley Hitchcock, Cheyenne Smith, Cathlynn Smith & Colten Smith; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  Funeral Service 2:00 PM Thursday at Bridges-Stocker-Fraley Funeral Home, Covington with Pastor Dan Scalf officiating.  Interment Forest Hill Cemetery, Piqua with Military Honors provided by the Veterans Elite Tribute Squad.  Visitation 12 Noon Thursday until time of service at the funeral home.  Condolences may be left for the family at www.stockerfraley.com