Plum Borough, PA-Pastor Ira “Bubby” Kelly, 69, gained his eternal reward on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2015.
The son of the late Norman and Alice (Rider) Kelley, and beloved brother of Eugene (Linda) Kelley, he was born on July 14, 1946, and raised in the mountains of Fairlea, where he gained his love for nature and God’s beautiful creation. A proud retired Army veteran, Pastor Kelly faithfully served his country during the Vietnam War, including two years as a POW, earning the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his valor and bravery. During his later years, Pastor Ira became an ordained Baptist minister, and pastored his flock at the First Baptist Church of Glassport.
He will forever be loved and missed and his memory cherished by family including his wife Pastor Joann; his children, Brandy Wykle (Jason), Susan McCormick, John Babl (Patty), Linda Rump (Kevin) and his beloved late daughter, Lisa Kelly. He is survived by his grandchildren, Garrett, Samantha, Melinda, Christina, Jeri Ann, Patrick, Megan, John, Corey, Kevin, Patricia, Cassie, Jake, Joshua, Joey, Rihanna, Rachel and Reina and nieces, Beth, Missy and Sandy. He is also survived by numerous great and great-great grandchildren, cousins and many friends.
A gentle, humble, down-to-earth man, Pastor Ira was truly loved by everyone who knew him. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and anything “manly.” His life is a testimony to those who hold true to the faith, and we will forever be blessed for calling him our own.
Visitation was Monday, Aug. 24 at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township, PA. Services were held at the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, Aug. 25 where Pastor Stephen Uber, officiated. Interment with Military Honors followed at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Bridgeville, PA.
