Obituary of Charles David Kelley

Charles David Kelley was born in Staten Island New York on January 10, 1937. He was the youngest and only son of five children of the late Pellie Kelley and the late Reverend  Mabel Ethel Kennedy Kelley.  His mother was the Pastor and founder of Salem Methodist Mission in Manhattan. Charles died after fighting a long illness on November 22 2018  in Flushing NY.

Charles Kelley was raised in Harlem, New York.  He later moved to Corona,Queens where he attended the NewYork City public school system. After graduation he began his career at Triboro Hospital, Queens before becoming employed for over 30 years at Queens General Hospital.

In 1980 he met the love of his life Helen Oakman. They were married in 1983 and spent 35 blissful, joyous and blessed years together until his death.  Together they raised a son, Haywood Oakman. Charles Kelley developed many lasting relationships in the church and community.   His warm personality and infectious smile endeared him to everyone he knew. He was an avid  reader, sports enthusiast and loved to travel. He loved to converse  about the Bible and politics.

Charles Kelley made a peaceful transition from mortality to eternal life. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Fannie, Flossie and Miriam.

He leaves many to celebrate his life and to mourn his passing.   He is survived by his loving wife, Helen Kelley (Flushing, NY), son Haywood  Oakman, daughter-in-law Asonya Oakman, two grandsons Tyrese and Jayson Oakman (Brooklyn, NY). Charles Kelley also leaves one sister, Jessie Bradley (Bronx, NY), four sister-in -laws, Beatrice Oakman, Ellese Murell, Jeanette Oakman (Aiken, SC), Eva Patterson (Valley Stream, NY) one brother-in-law, Willie J Oakman/Adrienne (Beech Island, SC) and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.