Lela Kelly

Lela Verlane Kelly, age 81 of Tucumcari, NM passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, September 14, 2026. Her family was at her bedside. Lela was born May 6, 1945 in Hutchinson, Kansas to the home of Leland and Elizabeth (Rector) Wray. Lela suffered from Polio as a child. Her family moved to Tucson and Mesa, Arizona for her health.

Lela attended Cosmetology School in Arizona and worked as a beautician for several years. She enjoyed carfting, and charcoal drawing.

Lela is preceded in death by her parents, a sister Karen Lytle in 2022, and a brother Richard Henning in 1988.

Survivors include her husband, Gene Kelly of Tucumcari, five children Michelle Dwyer of Aurora, CO, Richard Dwyer and his wife Christi of Aurora, CO, Cheryl Hayes and her husband David of Las Vegas, NV, James Strohmeyer of Culpepper, VA, and Amand Reyes and husband Sergio of Tucumcari, NM. Also surviving is one sister Jeannette Williams of Casa Grande, AZ, eight grandchildren Kaydee McKinley, Kylee McKinley, Justin Florman, Cortney Brumley, Aliscia Cade, Chris Hayes, Jordyn Dwyer, and Ryan Dwyer along with 11 great-grandchildren other relatives and many friends.

A family viewing and final good-bye was held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at the Chavez Funeral Home.

Please keep Lela's family in your prayers, you may sign the online guest book, share a favorite memory or leave a note on condolence for her family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 830 N. Fifth Street, Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (575) 355-2311.