Francis Elbert “Brian” Kelley, 84, of Granite City, Illinois passed away at 2:52 a.m. on Monday, April 1, 2024, at his home. He was born March 20, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of the late Francis Elbert and Veronica (Ponsett) Kelley. Brian retired from the Terminal Railroad after over 20 years of dedicated service as a switchman. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Granite City and a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Tri-Cities Council #1098 in Granite City. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed his days of fishing and hunting and was a gun enthusiast. He is survived by the love of his life, Lola Anna (Cory) Crowder and has enjoyed 30 years together. He is also survived by a sister, Donna; three step-children and their spouses, Charles and Donna Crowder of Springfield, Missouri, Dawn and John Fisher of Granite City and Tina and Brent Tiffany of Florissant, Missouri; several step-great grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other extended family and many friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah Kelley. In celebration of his life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Granite City with Father Steve Thompson as celebrant. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville. Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children and may be accepted at the funeral chapel. www.irwinchapel.com
