Jess Auston "Buck" Kelley, age 73 of Newport, passed away Friday, December 4, 2020 at Tennova Newport Medical Center.

 

He was a member of Allen's Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Kelley was an athletic enthusiast, having served for many years as a coach and referee for various youth sports. He was also a country / western dance instructor, operating the Kuntry Dance Barn in Cosby for a number of years.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy & Velma Kelley; brother, Charles Clinton "Sonny" Kelley; and sister, Reba Stokely.

 

He is survived by his wife, Karen Kelley; sons, Scott (Linda) Kelley & Casey (Diana Samples) Kelley; stepson Jason Wood; grandchildren, Chance (Makenna) Kelley, Erin & Leah Kelley, and Jaleeana Wood; sisters, Phyllis Seay, Wilma (Earl) Seay, Teresa (Gary) Payne, and Kathy Kelley; several nieces & nephews; special friends, Ray Stokely, Charlie Brooks, & David King; and a host of other friends he met over the years.

 

The family will hold a private graveside service at the Jonestown Cemetery in Del Rio.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cocke County Golf Team.

 

Brown Funeral Home is honored to serve the Kelley family.