Beloved 39 year old, Jilian Delores (Dalbey) Kelley, went to be with her Heavenly Father on April 13, 2024. She was born on June 3, 1984, to her loving and adored parents, Theodore Joe and Kalie Ann (Chatterton) Dalbey.
Jilian and Heath Whitney Kelley married on October 11, 2002, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. To this beloved marriage were four children, Jaelynn Grace, Alexis Joann, Deric Whitney, and Tyler Joe. Those who knew Jilian will always remember her alongside her beloved husband, Heath, and their four cherished children. Her family was her pride and joy, and her unwavering love for them knew no bounds. A devoted wife and mother, Jilian’s gentle soul and pure heart were unparalleled. Her presence radiated warmth, making everyone feel valued and loved in her midst.
Jilian led a life dedicated to her faith and service to others as a devoted Christian woman and Pastor’s wife. She filled the role of the First Christian Church of Hugoton’s secretary with grace and compassion. Jilian’s influence extended to the younger generation through her leadership at Wednesday Night Olympian and Gopher Buddies Children’s Church, where she nurtured the spiritual growth of children and guided them in their relationship with the Lord.
Beyond her roles within the church and her family life, Jilian found joy in simple pleasures. Whether traveling with Heath and their children, cheering on the Nebraska Cornhuskers, or feeling the exhilaration of riding her “hotrod” motorcycle, Jilian lived life with an infectious smile that brightened the world around her. Her proudest accomplishments were not found in accolades or recognition, but in the love she shared with her family. Attending every sporting event for her children at Hugoton Middle School and High School exemplified her unwavering support and dedication as a mother.
As we mourn the loss of Jilian on earth, we find solace in knowing that she will greet us in Heaven when our time comes to an end here on earth. While our hearts ache with grief, we also celebrate the beautiful life she lived.
Jilian leaves behind a circle of love that extends far beyond her immediate family. She is survived by her adoring husband Heath Kelley; daughters Jaelynn and Alexis Kelley; sons Deric and Tyler Kelley; father and mother, Ted and Kalie Dalbey, Gerring, NE.; brother Chad Dalbey; sister Rachel Worcester and husband Curtis; mother-in-law Carol Kelley; father-in-law Max Kelley; sisters-in-law Jessie Scripter and Hillery Kennedy and husband Rudy; nieces Lashay, Hannah; nephews Eli, Micah, Alex; as well as many other relatives and friends whose lives she touched with her laughter and radiant smile. She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents.
A memorial has been established for First Christian Church of Hugoton or Willow Christian Church of Indianola, NE. Whomever you choose for your contribution, the money will be spent on one of Jilian’s favorite pasttimes, having children grow in their relationship with Jesus. Memorials are in the care of Robson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 236, Hugoton, Kansas 67951.
Book signing services will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2024, from 3 P.M. to 6 P.M. and Monday, April 29, 2024 from 10 A.M. to 8 P.M., at Robson Funeral Home, Hugoton.
Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at 10 A.M. at First Christian Church of Hugoton. Family and friends are encouraged to wear yellow to the service.
In honoring Jilian’s memory, let us carry forward the light she shared with us all – a light fueled by love, kindness, warmth, and an unwavering faith. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit will forever dwell in our hearts. May we find comfort in each other as we bid farewell to a remarkable soul who left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Robson Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
