March 18, 1961 – May 2, 2021

Michael was born to Robert R. Kelly and Martha Ann Westbrook. He was the oldest of 6 children. He lived his early years in Alamosa, Colo., Guadalajara, Mexico and Chattanooga, Tenn. Following graduation from High School in Tennessee, he served a 2-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Concepcion, Chile. He attended college at Brigham Young University, Adams State College and received a Doctorate degree from Idaho State University. Michael and his family then moved to Arkadelphia, Ark. where he was a Professor in Psychology for 29 years and at the time of his passing was serving as the Department Chair.

At the age of 25, he was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a neuromuscular disease, which slowed him down but never stopped him from being active. He loved the water and was an avid water skier.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He is survived by his parents, his wife Lisa Verville, his children, Kimo (Chelsea) Kalana of Montrose, Colo.; Ashley (Chris) Friesell of Alamosa, Colo.; Scott (Amy) Kelly of Hailey, Idaho; Cathryn Kelly of Denver, Colo.; Amber (Josh) Barlow of Orem, Utah; and the children’s mother Stephanie Choates.  There are two grandchildren, Aspen Barlow and Leon Friesell.

He is also survived by his siblings, Kyle (Judi) Kelly of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Darren (Melissa) Kelly, of Calhan, Colo.; Molly (Djoko) Boentaran of Albuquerque, NM; Jonathan (Dana) Kelly of Aztec, NM; and Jason (Patricia) Kelly of Alamosa, Colo..

Funeral services are pending.