Robert M. Kelly

Robert M. Kelly, 94, passed away peacefully at Memorial Medical Center on March 15, 2021. He was born November 14, 1926 to Martin and Beatrice Kelly. Robert was a 1944 graduate of Cathedral High School and 1946 graduate of Springfield Junior College. He served in the US Army in Europe during in the mid 1950’s.

On October 19, 1957, he married Phyllis Y. Lee of Peoria, Illinois. Together they raised five children in Springfield’s Colony West Subdivision.

Robert was employed for 36 years with Illinois Bell. He was a lifelong sports fan and was particularly fond of Notre Dame and SHG football as well as his beloved Chicago Cubs. He was a mentor and positive influence to Springfield youth and loved serving as coach for boy’s flag football, basketball and girl’s softball teams.

During retirement, he and Phyllis enjoyed traveling to sandy destinations with family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Phyllis; his brother, Jim; and his parents.

Robert is survived by his five children, Vicky (Doug Eden) Kelly, Patrick Kelly, Thomas (Lucy) Kelly, Jim (Diana) Kelly, and Dennis (Stacy) Kelly; eight grandchildren, Tabitha (Billy), Shane, Josh, Denae (Zeke), Zach, Katy, Matt, and Ben; four great-grandchildren, Cadence, Lylah, Halle, and Izzy; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: 9:30 – 11:00 am, Saturday, March 20, 2021 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.

Funeral Service: 11:00 am, Saturday, March 20, 2021 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Monsignor David Lantz officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Remembering Ryan or National Kidney Foundation.

CDC Protocol shall be followed.

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