Robert Franklin O’Kelley (Bob), 75, passed away peacefully at home with his wife by his side on Thursday May 6, 2021. He was born in Tallahassee, FL on November 8, 1945 and was the son of A. Frank and Louise Reid Pittman O’Kelley.
A native of Tallahassee, he was a proud graduate of Leon High School, Class of 1963. He earned an A.B. degree in History from Davidson College in 1967, where he was also was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. After graduation, Bob served as First Lieutenant in the United States Army, stationed in El Paso, Texas (1969-1971). Upon returning to Tallahassee, he earned a B.S. degree in Accounting from Florida State University.
He was a devout Christian, a lifetime member of First Baptist Church of Tallahassee and he lived out his faith every day. He was a true family man.
He spent the majority of his career working for Florida A&M University in the Comptroller’s office from where he retired in 2003.
He loved playing tennis. He was a member of the “Golden Boys Tennis League” and enjoyed his Wednesday night tennis group for many years. An avid sports fan, you could always find Bob cheering on the Florida State Seminoles and he also enjoyed following Davidson basketball.
Music made him happy – he knew the artist and lyrics to every song. He enjoyed sharing his passion for music, especially with his grandchildren – he loved to sing and dance with them to his favorite songs.
He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister Louise O’Kelley Hardman (2018). Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Brenda Cross O’Kelley, his children: Reid O’Kelley (Amy), Patrick O’Kelley (Nan), Kevin O’Kelley and Christopher O’Kelley, all of Tallahassee; his grandchildren: Sanders, Alexandra & Caroline O’Kelley and Tyler & Braden O’Kelley; and his sister Elizabeth (Betsy) Milford of Fairview, NC. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, family and friends who will miss him dearly.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday May 12, 2021 at 11:00am at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee. Family will receive friends following the service in the Welcome Center at the church. Susie Mozolic of Bevis Funeral Home is assisting the family with their arrangements (www.bevisfh.com 850-385-2193)
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Tallahassee or Big Bend Hospice.