Graham R. Kelley

Graham R. Kelley, 93, of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

He was born November 21, 1932, in Pasadena, California, the son of George L. and Zola C. (Musgrove) Kelley. He was a 1951 graduate of Pasadena High School, and graduated from College of Emporia in 1966 with a Bachelor’s in Music Education and later received his Master’s Degree in Education from Kansas State Teachers College.

Graham served in the United States Air Force from 1952 until being honorably discharged in 1963 and continued his military career in the United States Army Reserves from 1975 until retiring in 1992. He played in the 35th Infantry Division Band of Kansas National Guard Band also serving as previous Commander and Conductor.

Graham was a music educator beginning in Waverly, Kansas, later Sabetha, Kansas and retired as Music Teacher after 27 years with Topeka 501 Public Schools.

He was an active member of Countryside United Methodist Church and Music Union in Topeka. He was also a member of Golden Rule Masonic Lodge No. 90 AF & AM, Scottish Rite Bodies and Arab Shrine all in Topeka. He also was an active member of Kansas National Education Association and National Educational Association.

Graham married Mary Linn Bruns on June 30, 1966 in Lawrence, Kansas. She preceded him in death on May 30, 2010. Survivors include his son, Michael G. (Jessica) Kelley of Topeka; his granddaughter, Savannah Reigh Kelley of Georgia; his dear friend, Marian Clinkenbeard; and his nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Etta Beals and Patricia Davis; and his brother, William G. Kelley.

Graham was an active musician playing numerous instruments with various professional and local bands, including Santa Fe Band, Topeka Big Band, the Marshall’s Band, Topeka Symphony and Countryside United Methodist Church Orchestra. He also played in the Bob Lenigan Orchestra for the Miss Kansas Pageant in Pratt, Kansas for many years. His enjoyments included sailing, flying as a licensed pilot, driving, traveling and classic cars.

Honoring his request, cremation is planned. A celebration of life ceremony is pending at Countryside United Methodist Church, 3221 SW Burlingame Rd, Topeka, KS 66611. Please check back for more information.

Dove Cremations and Funerals, Southwest Chapel in Topeka is assisting the family.

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