Raymonde Maurice Kelley Jr., known to those who loved him as Ray, passed away on March 31, 2026, at his home in Buford, Georgia, after battling respiratory illness. He was 76 years old.

Ray was born on September 13, 1949, in Macon, Georgia. He pursued his education by earning his undergraduate degree from Mercer University before going on to graduate from the University of Denver Law School. It was clear early on that the law would become both his calling and his passion.

On May 31, 1969, Ray married the love of his life, Cheryl Starr, and together they built a partnership that would define both their personal and professional lives. Ray practiced law for over 40 years, primarily in Macon, and for the last 20 years of his career, he and Cheryl shared a family mediation practice. They became the only husband and wife mediation team in Georgia at the time, a distinction that spoke to the strength of their bond and their shared commitment to their clients.

Ray was intelligent and kind. He was the type of lawyer who worked with clients on payment when times were hard. He loved researching the law and frequently assisted other attorneys and even judges with legal interpretations. He was a family man through and through, willing to do anything for the people he loved. One of his passions was helping his children with homework or coaching their sports. 

When he wasn't practicing law, Ray could be found cheering on all things Georgia sports, especially his beloved Bulldogs. He raised two successful children, Kristen Kelley Gregory and Michael Francis Kelley, an Army veteran.

Ray is survived by his wife, Cheryl, his daughter, Kristen; and his son, Michael, son-in-law, Tony, grandchildren, Sydney and Danny. 

Ray lived a life of service, curiosity, and quiet faith. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 25, at 3:00 p.m. at Mary & St. Martha's Episcopal Church, 4336 Ridge Road, Buford, Georgia.

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