We want to tell you a story about our family’s love for Dr. Kelley.
Mom has 5 daughters and each of us would take turns taking care of her. When mom was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2010, we asked her primary care physician who was the best nephrologist in the Mid-South. Without hesitation, he said, Bobby Kelley.
We went to Dr. Kelley and with his sweet smile, he said these seven words, “I will take care of your mother.” From that point on, Dr. Kelley did exactly that. He saved our mother’s life numerous times. We know that Dr. Kelley fought to save mom’s life because we were by her side every day and saw how he would not give up. Of course, we know God saved mom’s life, but He used Dr. Kelley’s expertise, skill, knowledge, dedication and even humor to take care of her. One day, mother decided that she was ready to leave Dr. Kelley’s care and put herself in the care of our heavenly Father.
Not only the medical community in Memphis, but also the entire Mid-South has lost a man who cannot be replaced. Bobby Kelley had many careers and had life experiences that cover over half a century of influencing coaches, sports players, hunters, students, doctors and innumerable patients. These are only a few of the categories that just begin to describe how many lives he touched. His vast knowledge of medicine was not only related to nephrology but he also took into consideration each individual’s special needs.
Even when he didn’t feel well and it was difficult for him to get around in his scooter, he unselfishly gave of his time and energy to take care of his patients. He considered others to be his highest priority. The Bible says that the first commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind and the second is like the first, that you should love others as yourself. Bobby Kelley lived by those commands.
Bobby J. Kelley was one of an elite group of people we call the “true southern gentleman.” He had a quick wit, an outstanding sense of humor, a love and compassion for people of all walks of life and the sweetest smile that was genuine and honest.
We thank God for Bobby Kelley and our family will forever be grateful for him and for our friendship with him. Without a doubt this world is a better place because of the life of Dr. Bobby Jerald Kelley - The Lily Chu Family
