Richard Dennis Kelly

Preceded in death by his parents Thaddeus and Theresa Kelly, 8 brothers & sisters, and his daughter-in-law, Nikiea Kelly.

Survived by loving and devoted wife Bonnie of 58 years, children Tami Bryan (Steve Bryan), Richard Kelly, Rodney Baker (Angela Baker), Kevin Kelly, Carolyn Miller (Mike Miller), Tricia Kelly (Colin), grandchildren Emma, Richie III, Mitchell, Briana, Krista, Trina, Jenny, Jamie, KC, Lauren, Justin, Jason, Jesse, Haley, great grandchildren Lukah, Nadiya, Hayden, Keiland, Hendrix, Palmer, Pace, Brooke, Olivia, Roger, Brittany, Gianna, Marcello, Knox, Nash, Sutton, and welcoming two great-grandchildren McKinley and Mason this summer. As well as his sister Eileen Orrico and all his nieces and nephews that love Uncle Denny.

Richard D. Kelly graduated from Kelly High School in 1958. He began his life as a gearhead shortly thereafter, starting his career at 3M as a machine mechanic and then as a diesel mechanic at PIE. In 1972, he moved to Arizona with his family and Kelly got a job immediately; no breaks. He and his wife Bonnie settled in a beautiful pink house in Scottsdale. In 1973, Kelly joined the Scottsdale Jaycee’s and served as chairman for the first hot air balloon race in Arizona. Kelly was also a member of “The Mavericks” and did Western shootouts throughout the state of Arizona to share our state’s history with others. Then in 1974, Kelly joined the City of Scottsdale as a mechanic and was soon promoted to Fleet Supervisor and then Fleet Manager. He designed the revolutionary Godzilla garbage truck in 1975. He also served as president of Kellyann Corp., an advanced engine technology corporation. In 1992, Kelly participated in many Cadillac car shows. In 1995, he then retired his position with the City of Scottsdale to spend time with his family and immersed himself in his many side car projects and car restorations.

Kelly’s family would also like to thank the amazing nursing staff at Honor Health Shea Hospital. Thank you for the care and compassion you showed our loved one in his final days.

Family and Friends are invited to a casual Celebration of Life (open house) on July 26th, 2025 at 5:00PM – 7:00PM at the Kelly Casa.

In honor of Kelly’s memory, please attend a local car show of your choice.