Raymond Charles "Ray" Kelly, 77, made his journey to heaven in his home, surrounded by family, on March 28, 2026—likely greeted with open arms and, if we know Ray, already scouting out the best light for his next masterpiece. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church (335 W. 1st St., Tea, SD). The family will greet friends for visitation from 5:00 - 7:00 PM, Friday, April 3, 2026, at Miller Funeral Home - Westside Chapel (6200 W. 41st St., Sioux Falls).

Ray was born on February 8, 1949, at the hospital in Phillip, SD to Gail "Bud" and Frances (Sheely) Kelly of Midland, South Dakota. In 1983, Ray married the love of his life, Joanie Mentele. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and partnership for 42 years. Ray was a proud father to his two daughters, Sheila and Desire' and later became a deeply devoted grandfather and great-grandfather.

Ray lived a life that could never be described as ordinary. His career journey took him from riding and boarding horses, to selling cars, to working with saddles and tack. But it was in his 30's that he answered the call that would define him: becoming a full-time artist.

Working in pencil, colored pencil, mixed media, and bronze sculpting, Ray's talent grew into something truly remarkable. His work earned numerous accolades, including First Place awards at the Dakota Masterworks, the Turner County Fair Art Competition, and the Sioux Empire Fair Art Competition. He also served as a PBR Artist for several years.

Among his proudest accomplishments was his bronze sculpture of General Custer, which still stands in the visitor center in Custer—a lasting testament to his skill and dedication.

Yet, beyond the awards and recognition, what mattered most to Ray was using his gift to give back. He generously donated original artwork to Make-A-Wish Foundation and toured with the Mandrell sisters, helping raise funds for their charitable events. His art touched lives not only through beauty, but through generosity.

Ray's work found homes with collectors around the world, but his heart always remained grounded in the simple things. If he wasn't creating, you could find him hunting, fishing, or spending time with the people he loved most.

Ray will be remembered for his creativity, his adventurous spirit, his generosity, and his deep love for his family. His legacy lives on not only in the art he created, but in the lives he impacted and the memories he leaves behind.

Grateful for sharing Ray's life are his loving wife of 42 years, Joanie Mentele; his daughters, Sheila (Dave) Pirrung and Desire' (Joel) Jansen; grandchildren, Kelly (Lucas) Tolley, Katie (Nick) Wagner, Beckham Jansen, and Maya Jansen; eight beautiful great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy; sisters, Marie (Bert) Reif, and Camille (Mark) Hinrickson, sister-in-law, Jeanine Hagen; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; siblings, Angel Kelly, Roger Kelly, and Dell Kelly; brother-in-law, Kim "Butch" Karnof; and his sister-in-law Dannelle Kelly.