Donald "Don" Ray Jelley

Donald “Don” Ray Jelley, 81, of Mooresville, passed peacefully from this life on Saturday, August 24, 2024, surrounded by his loving family and in the comfort of his own home. He was born in Geff, IL, on April 11, 1943, to the late Donald Edward and Irma Alvadene (McDowell) Jelley. Growing up in the small town of Fairfield, IL, Don learned at an early age the value of hard work, spending his free time helping on the family farm. After graduating with the class of 1961 from the local high school, he left home for the first time to attend Southern Illinois University where he earned a BA in Economics with the class of 1966. In the fall of 1964, Don was coerced into going on a double-blind date with a buddy and found himself drawn to his buddy’s date more than his own. On Jan. 2, 1965 (a mere 4 months later) he married his soulmate and the love of his life, Sybil “Sue” Mizell. In October of 1965, the happy couple welcomed their one and only child, Scott, completing their happy family. While in college, and a true patriot with a desire to serve his country, Don joined the ROTC program at SIU, which led him to proudly enlist into the United States Air Force after graduation. He served as a Captain USAF from 1966-1970 during the Vietnam War, as a supply officer stationed state side. Upon his discharge, he began his career in the insurance business, and continued for 40 years until his most deserved retirement in 2010. Due to his military and insurance careers, the family was frequently on the move, setting up homes in Texas, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Kentucky and finally their forever home in Mooresville, to be near their son’s family. In addition, he was a member of the American Legion Post 103. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Don enjoyed cheering his grandkids, Taylor and Conner, from the stands during their sports games, all the while heckling the coaches. Highly intelligent, he remained supportive of all his family’s endeavors through the years. Stubborn to core, he was known to be ornery at times and thoroughly enjoyed a good joke, bringing a laugh from all those he knew. An avid golfer, retirement blessed him with the opportunity to play as often as he liked. He reveled in striking up conversations about finances and was an expert in the field. A hero to his family, Don was truly a good man and will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to share in his life. Don leaves behind his devoted wife of 59 years, Sybil “Sue” Jelley of Mooresville; son, Scott Jelley (Deana) of Monrovia; grandchildren, Taylor Jelley (Pavel) of Manassas, VA, and Connor Jelley (Jacelyn) of Avon; along with his siblings, Linda Hendrix of Barnhill, IL, and Willard Jelley (Janet) of FL. Don’s family wishes to extend a big thanks to the Mooresville St Francis Oncology Center doctors and staff, as well as Suburban Hospice staff and nurses. Friends and family are invited to Celebrate Don’s Life from 11am to 1pm, on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia, with a Celebration of Life Service beginning at 1pm. Pastor Les Chamberlain will officiate services and burial will follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Hall, with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to KC’s Cause, Inc, 5648 W. Olive Branch Rd., Greenwood, IN 46143, and envelopes will be provided during services. Per Don’s wishes, family and friends that are golfers are encouraged to dress in golf attire. To upload a picture on his tribute wall, share a favorite story, send the family an online condolence, sign the online guest registry, or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.lightmemorial.com.

Tributes

Donald "Don" Ray Jelley

April 11, 1943 - August 26, 2024