Franklin D Kelly

Franklin D. Kelly lived a life defined by quiet strength, unwavering love, and deep devotion to his family. Born to Emily Washington Kelly and Zell Kelly, Frank grew up with a sense of purpose and a heart full of generosity. He carried those values with him throughout his 92 years, touching countless lives with his wisdom, humor, and kindness. He took great pride in living within the Auburn Community throughout the course of his lifetime.

Frank proudly served in the United States Army from 1953-1955, where he attended Heavy Equipment School and developed the skills that would shape his lifelong career. After his honorable discharge from the military, he joined Operating Engineers Local 101, located in Kansas City, MO, and became part of the backbone of Kansas infrastructure. Frank was fortunate to help build Lake Perry, Tuttle Creek Reservoir, and LaCygne Lake, alongside numerous road projects that still serve the Kansas communities today. Later, he worked for Williamsport Township in Shawnee County for over 25 years before retiring. He remained a proud union member until his passing. Frank was also an avid farmer, loved his tractors and anything he could do outdoors.

Frank was a man who believed in the power of connection. He built a home filled with love alongside his devoted wife of 35 years, Ada, who remained by his side through every season of life. Together, they nurtured a family that became his greatest pride.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ada, brother, Ira Kelly of Rossville, KS, brother-in-law, Eddie Jones of Verona, VA, his children, Jeanette Shipley (John) of Valley Falls, KS, Joe Ronnebaum (Chris) of Auburn, KS, Barbara Montgomery (Barry) of Topeka, KS, Bill Ronnebaum (Kelsey) of Meriden, KS, Lori Kelly of Austin, TX, Carolyn Kelly of Manhattan, KS, and Victor Kelly of Topeka, KS.

Frank’s love extended to his grandchildren, Samantha (Eric Chavira) Montgomery of Dighton, KS, Blake (Anna) Shipley of Auburn, KS, Chase (Blanca Parra-Peralta) Montgomery of Oklahoma City, OK, Lane (Rachel) Shipley and Ellie Shipley of Valley Falls, KS, KC (Kyle) Bond of Auburn, KS, Tarynn Ronnebaum of Meriden, KS, and Dana Kelly of Austin, TX. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his great grandchildren, Zachariah and Lorenzo Montgomery, Ezekiel Peralta of Oklahoma City, OK, Mazie Shipley of Valley Falls, KS, Kooper & Kolby Bond of Auburn, KS, Rylie, Paige, & Hunter Wessel of Auburn, KS who brought light and laughter to his later years.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Emily (Washington) and Zell Kelly, and his beloved sisters Patsey Jones and Mary Kelly. Though he has left this world, the echoes of his laughter, the lessons he taught and the love he gave so freely remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him.

Franklin D. Kelly was a man of quiet impact- a steady presence in a world that often rushes past. His legacy lives on in every story shared, every value passed down and every moment of grace that his life inspired.

Rest peacefully Frank, Dad, Grandpa, and Great Grandpa. You were deeply loved, will be missed and you will never be forgotten.

Services will begin with a visitation from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at Dove Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS 66610. Graveside will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at Auburn Cemetery, 330 SW Hodges Rd, Auburn, KS 66402.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shawnee County Fire District #2 of Auburn, KS, PO Box 160, Auburn, KS 66402.