Darlene Sue Kelley

Darlene Sue Kelley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, in Sioux City, Iowa, at the age of 69. 

As family and friends gather to honor her memory, visitation will take place on December 2, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 7:00 PM, with Neil Peck presiding, both held at Christy-Smith Funeral Homes - Larkin Chapel, located at 2320 Outer Drive N, Sioux City, IA. The burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.christysmith.com.

Darlene was born on July 9, 1955, in Spencer, Iowa to Donald R. and Donna Mae (Sassman) Sexton. The family later moved to Fairmont, MN, and then to Sioux City when she was in the fourth grade. Darlene was a proud member of the first graduating class of North High School in 1973. She married Roger D. Kelley on June 16, 1973, at the first United Methodist Church in Sioux City. 

She had an impressive career in retail, starting her journey at Kwik Shop and Kmart before working at Casey's General Stores for 33 years, first as a doughnut maker eventually rising to the role of store manager. In her final position, she oversaw the operations of ten stores across Iowa and Nebraska before her retirement in February 2020. Her work ethic and leadership left a lasting impact on her colleagues and the communities she served.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Darlene was known for her vibrant spirit and love for life. She took immense joy in attending numerous sports activities of her grandchildren and cherished moments spent playing cards and bingo with family and friends. A passionate enthusiast of motorcycle rides, Darlene loved riding Harleys and participating in poker runs. She also found peace in reading, often immersing herself in a good book.

Darlene is survived by her loving husband, Roger D. Kelley; her daughter, Karri Jo (Rob) Kritzer; her son, Brian Dean (Beth) Kelley; ten grandchildren, Kyle Kritzer, Hannah Kritzer, Madelyn Kelley, Faith Kelley, Liam Kelley, James Kelley, Finley Kelley, Sydney Kelley, Anthony Kelley, and Maria Kelley; her brother, Dennis (Carol) Sexton; her sisters, Deb Olson and Diane Sexton-Hutchinson; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, friends, and her dog Sophie. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Ralph and Hazel Sassman, and George and Violet Townsend; her father, Donald Sexton; and her daughters, Megan Marie Kelley, and Ashley Marie Kelley.

Darlene Sue Kelley will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love.